On May 1, 2025, the serene Trudi-Hanga meadow in Bhaderwah, Jammu and Kashmir, buzzed with spiritual fervor as hundreds of devotees and tourists gathered at the sacred Shiv-Bani Temple to mark Akshay Tritiya. Undeterred by the shadow of the recent Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed 26 lives in Anantnag’s Baisaran meadow, the faithful flocked to this ancient shrine, showcasing an inspiring blend of devotion and defiance.
Akshay Tritiya, celebrated on April 30–May 1, 2025, holds immense significance in Hindu and Jain traditions, symbolizing prosperity and auspicious beginnings. For the Nag followers of Bhaderwah, the opening of Shiv-Bani Temple on this day is a cherished ritual, drawing pilgrims to its tranquil setting for prayers and offerings. This year, however, the pilgrimage carried added weight, coming just days after the devastating attack in Pahalgam that targeted tourists and shook the region.
The Pahalgam tragedy, one of the deadliest in recent times, prompted heightened security across Jammu and Kashmir, with authorities closing several tourist hotspots and bolstering patrols. Yet, the devotees’ resolve remained unshaken. “The faith in Lord Shiva is stronger than any fear,” said Ramesh Kumar, a local pilgrim, echoing the sentiment of many who trekked to the temple. Social media posts on X captured the mood, with users praising the “unyielding spirit” of the pilgrims and their refusal to let terror dictate their traditions.
Local officials ensured tight security at Trudi-Hanga meadow, deploying police and paramilitary forces to safeguard the gathering. The event proceeded peacefully, with devotees performing rituals amid the meadow’s scenic beauty, a stark contrast to the violence that had gripped Pahalgam. The Shiv-Bani Temple, nestled in Bhaderwah’s lush landscape, stood as a beacon of hope, reinforcing the region’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
The turnout at Shiv-Bani reflects a broader narrative of resilience in Jammu and Kashmir, where communities continue to embrace their traditions despite challenges. As India navigates the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack—marked by diplomatic measures like banning Pakistani airlines and censoring provocative online content—the devotees’ pilgrimage sends a powerful message: faith and unity will prevail.
