Temple reopening a sign of normalcy; reflects unity and brotherhood, says DC Baramulla

Waris Fayaz

Baramulla, Apr 30: Kashmiri Pandits returned to the historic Ganesh Temple in Kachua village of Baramulla after nearly 36 years, reviving a pre-1989 tradition that once drew large gatherings from across communities.

Located around 15 kilometres from Baramulla town, the temple used to host annual congregations on April 29 and 30 before the eruption of militancy. This year, the return was marked by a Havan performed with active participation of devotees.

The event, per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), saw support from local Muslim residents, who joined in facilitating the gathering, reflecting a renewed sense of communal harmony in the area. Members of the Pandit community described the moment as emotional and symbolic of reconnecting with their roots.

Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Syed Fakhruddin Hamid termed the reopening of the temple a sign of normalcy and said it reflects unity and brotherhood on the ground. He congratulated both Muslim and Pandit communities for the occasion and said their cooperation had made the revival possible.