TEHRAN – During the past week, the streets of Kashmir witnessed a series of mourning as a profound sorrow took hold of the region. The news of Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi's tragic death in a helicopter crash has sent ripples of grief and sympathy across the area.

From the bustling markets of Srinagar to the quiet towns of Budgam, the community has come together to honor President Raisi, who was martyred in a helicopter crash on May 19.

The untimely loss of Raisi and several of his companions has sparked a wave of solidarity and grief across the region.

Just a day after the news of the tragic crash came out, Shia Muslims from various parts of Kashmir gathered near the Clock Tower in Lal Chowk, Srinagar, for a candlelight vigil. This vigil was part of a broader series of mourning events, reflecting the deep respect and admiration many in Kashmir hold for the late Iranian leader. 

One local among the gathering, Ali Hussain expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the Iranian people, saying that the tragic event has shocked them. “We gather here to show our support and offer our prayers for the victims and their families. We would like to request the Muslim Ummah to pray for the departed souls and remember them in your prayers,” he said.

Similarly, another participant said their hearts and prayers go out to the people of Iran during this difficult time. Additionally, numerous funeral ceremonies were organized across Srinagar, where mourners reaffirmed their faith and devotion towards the late President.

Magam town in Budgam observed a complete shutdown on Monday as a sign of mourning. Shops closed, and traffic was minimal as the community expressed its solidarity with the people of Iran. 

As the funeral ceremonies dragged on for consecutive days, religious scholar Syed Aknoon paid homage to the Iranian leaders, noting their sacrifice in the path of the Almighty. “They actually sacrificed their lives in the path of the Almighty,” he said, highlighting the spiritual significance of their loss.

On Thursday, a significant condolence rally took place, with residents of Kashmir paying their respects to the late Iranian leader. "We recognize the importance of unity, respect, and mutual understanding. Our thoughts are with the Iranian nation as they strive for peace and progress," said local resident Muzammil Hussain in an interview with AFP.

On Friday, mourning ceremonies continued with large crowds taking to the streets in Srinagar to express condolences. Shia-dominated localities, such as Zadibal and Saida Kadal, observed complete shutdowns. Shops and businesses remained closed, and hundreds of mourners participated in a procession through Zadibal's streets, carrying photographs of the late President Raisi and the Leader of Islamic Revolution.

"The Muslim world is sad about the death of a religious scholar. He was more than a president; enemies should know that others will follow the way shown by our leader,” said Afaq Ali, a mourner. Another participant, Syed Basit, stated, “We are here to pay tributes to Raisi, who died serving his fellow humans.”

The gatherings and expressions of grief in Kashmir highlight not only the respect for President Raisi but also the shared sense of loss and solidarity with the Iranian nation. Raisi's efforts in raising the Palestinian issue and defending the sanctity of the Quran at the UN General Assembly were particularly appreciated by the mourners.

President Ebrahim Raisi held a special place in the hearts of many Kashmiris. His unwavering support for the rights of Muslims worldwide earned him profound respect and admiration in the region. Raisi's advocacy for oppressed communities and his efforts to bridge divides resonated deeply with Kashmiris who have long faced their own struggles.

Local leaders often cited Raisi's speeches and initiatives as a source of inspiration. His calls for unity and justice echoed through Kashmir. This shared sentiment was evident in the outpouring of grief and solidarity following his tragic death.

As Kashmir continues to mourn, the collective actions of the community underscore the enduring bond between the people of Kashmir and Iran, united in their grief and respect for a leader who made a lasting impact on the Muslim world. 

President Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian and six others died on May 19, when their helicopter crashed in foggy weather in the mountains near the northwestern border with Azerbaijan. The charred wreckage of the aircraft was found the following day.