Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed optimism on Thursday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would uphold the annual tradition of sending a “chadar” to the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, despite potential pressures from various quarters. Speaking to reporters, Abdullah emphasized the symbolic and cultural significance of the practice.
“You cannot entirely separate religion from politics. While we often speak of separating the church from the State, the reality is different. Votes are sought, and politics is conducted in the name of religion. It is an undeniable reality we must acknowledge,” Abdullah stated. “However, I sincerely hope the prime minister resists any pressures and continues the tradition of sending a chadar to Ajmer.”
Highlighting the dargah’s inclusive nature, Abdullah noted that its significance transcends religious boundaries. “Ajmer dargah is visited not just by Muslims but also by people of other faiths. Many non-Muslims visit the shrine, and its importance resonates across communities. Sentiments of countless people are tied to it,” he remarked.
Abdullah also praised the Supreme Court’s stance on communal harmony, referencing its recent rulings. “Thankfully, the Supreme Court has put an end to the practice of seeking temples beneath mosques. Once the court arrives at a comprehensive decision on such matters, it will be binding on everyone,” he added.
When asked about whether his evolving wardrobe choices reflect an assertion of his Muslim identity, Abdullah dismissed the notion. “I don’t choose my clothes to send a wider message. I don’t wake up in the morning thinking about what to wear to convey a statement. I should probably think about it more because, at times, my choices have led to misunderstandings,” he quipped.
He elaborated that his clothing choices are often rooted in tradition and practicality. “I wear a Sozni cap because it is part of my cultural heritage and keeps my head warm—especially as my hairline recedes. I’ve tried wearing a Karakul cap, but it doesn’t suit me. Similarly, I wore a pagdi in Jammu out of respect for local customs. These choices don’t compromise my faith. If people perceive a message in what I wear, it is purely incidental,” he clarified.
The National Conference leader also addressed questions about Kashmir’s secular image, asserting that the region’s people inherently embody these values. “The government doesn’t need to do anything to project Kashmir as secular; the people do it on their own. During the recent snowfall, we saw residents opening their homes and mosques to tourists in need. This wasn’t orchestrated by deputy commissioners or officials. It is simply how our people respond in times of need,” Abdullah explained.
Abdullah’s remarks underline the importance of preserving cultural traditions and fostering unity amid diversity. His comments on Kashmir’s community-driven secularism and his personal connection to cultural symbols reflect a commitment to inclusivity and respect for heritage. The chief minister’s hope that national leaders prioritize such values further underscores the need for traditions that bridge divides, honoring shared sentiments across communities.
