Kashmir’s first Haj 2026 batch departs amid tears and prayers

Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, : Amid scenes of faith, emotion and hope, the first batch of Haj pilgrims from Kashmir Valley departed for Saudi Arabia on Saturday, marking the beginning of the sacred journey.
Hundreds of family members gathered since early morning at Haj House, Bemina, here to bid farewell to their loved ones. The premises witnessed touching moments as relatives embraced departing pilgrims, offered prayers and wiped away tears before the journey began.
Children waved goodbye to elders, women stood in prayerful silence, while elderly pilgrims recited verses, holding prayer beads and travel documents close to their hearts.
The emotional send-off reflected the deep spiritual significance of Haj for Kashmiri families.
“It feels like Allah has invited us to His house. We waited many years for this moment,” an elderly pilgrim told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), before entering the Haj House.
Another family member said the tears were mixed with happiness, calling the pilgrimage a blessing for the entire family.
Officials said three flights carrying a total of 431 pilgrims departed from Srinagar on the first day, including 230 men and 201 women.
Executive Officer of the Haj Committee, Dr Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi told KNO that all arrangements, including transport, baggage handling, medical screening and documentation, had been put in place to ensure smooth departures.
“We have made all necessary arrangements for the comfort and convenience of pilgrims. The process remained smooth since morning,” he said.
Later, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah formally saw off the first batch of pilgrims at Srinagar International Airport. He interacted with the devotees, extended greetings and wished them a safe, peaceful and spiritually fulfilling journey.
CM Abdullah prayed for successful completion of Haj and sought blessings for peace, harmony and prosperity in Jammu & Kashmir.
Officials said 28 flights will operate between April 18 and May 5 to facilitate the pilgrimage this year. A total of 4,704 pilgrims from Jammu & Kashmir are scheduled to perform Haj in 2026—(KNO)