People are giving a courageous reply to terrorists than the politicians. Within a week after a brutal terrorist attack rocked the peaceful town of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, a show of resilience and optimism is being demonstrated by the tourists as well as the local Kashmiris.
While politicians are uttering brave words while going around within the protection of their security cover. However, the tourists from abroad and Indians are braving open areas like markets and scenic places.
On April 22 at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, terrorists opened fire on a group of tourists that claimed the lives of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen.
On Sunday, tourists were seen exploring the town, bringing a sense of normalcy and hope. They showed calmness and energy to defy the atmosphere of anxiety. at ease and unperturbed. They expressed admiration for Kashmir’s beauty and the warmth of locals.
Vlatko, also from Croatia and visiting Kashmir for the tenth time, said, “Kashmir is natural, peaceful, and the people are incredibly soft,” said Vlatko from the eastern European country of Croatia. “We feel completely safe,” he said.
Another tourist from the same country said, “The people are welcoming, and I’m happy to meet such kind people. It’s tragic what happened. I hope Kashmir enjoys peace and prosperity, as it truly deserves it.”
Mohammad Anas from Surat, Gujarat, said, “We are enjoying our time here in Pahalgam. We were deeply saddened by the loss of our fellow tourists. It’s a huge tragedy. However, the markets are still open, and everything is normal here. The Indian Army is present, and I haven’t felt any fear.”
Matching the spirit of the tourists was the courage shown by the local people and their protests. The people of Pahalgam marched with the national flag, defying terror and displaying strong solidarity with efforts being made to restore peace and continuity.
Meanwhile, theater and cine artist Atul Kulkarni has made an emotional appeal to the people of India — to not turn away from Kashmir, but to stand with it.
Atul Kulkarni went to Kashmir and documented his journey on Instagram.
He posted a photo from Pahalgam. “Aana zaroori hai,” he emphasized, because Kulkarni’s posts weren’t just about the scenery — they were filled with heart. He shared glimpses of Kashmir’s undying beauty: clear blue skies, gurgling streams, and locals carrying placards that read, “We condemn this attack.” Others proudly waved the Indian flag, a powerful sight of resilience.
Atul shared a Hindi poem dedicated to the spirit of Kashmir, alongside hashtags like #ChaloKashmir, #Kashmiriyat, and #DefeatTerror, all aimed at reminding people of the region’s enduring strength and warmth.
Courageous tourists are joined by brave Pahalgam people in defying fear and anxiety of terror attacks
Resilience and optimism demonstrated by the tourists as well as the local Kashmiris on the streets of Pahalgam