Onlykashmir.in Desk
In the serene village of Zainapora, Shopian, nestled among apple orchards, the remarkable friendship of 85-year-old Chaman Lal, a Kashmiri Pandit, and Mohammad Anwar Mir, a Kashmiri Muslim in his 80s, came to a poignant end with the passing of Mir.
Their bond, spanning four tumultuous decades, stood as a symbol of Kashmir’s shared humanity amid political unrest. Locals recall it as a story of resilience and hope, especially during the 1990s when many Kashmiri Pandits fled the Valley. Despite the exodus, Lal chose to stay in his ancestral village, even after losing his eyesight nearly 30 years ago. It was during this difficult time that Mir became his unwavering support.
For three decades, Anwar Mir visited Chaman Lal daily, offering companionship and care. Their walks through the familiar lanes of Zainapora became a testament to their enduring friendship, locals said. Their story became a beacon of communal harmony, embodying the hope for the return of Kashmiri Pandits.
“Lal’s decision to stay back earned him love and respect from the community,” said retired teacher Mohammad Hafiz, adding that the friendship was a lesson in unity and kindness.
Today, Chaman Lal lives with a heart heavy with grief. “I was born here, and I will die here,” he said, his words reflecting both his rootedness in Kashmir and his gratitude for a friendship that transcended faith and time. Their story remains a powerful legacy of peace, inspiring generations to come.
With Inputs: Associated News Bureau
