​​Kashmiris Celebrate Weddings Amid Rising Tensions

As tensions between India and Pakistan escalate, life on both sides of the border in the disputed Kashmir region continues amid a mix of apprehension and defiance. While political leaders and military forces prepare for potential conflict, ordinary Kashmiris find ways to carry on, with some even proceeding with major life events like weddings, undeterred by the looming threat of war.

According to a news report, despite the increasing tensions in the region, Rabia Bibi, 18, and Chaudhry Junaid, 23, went ahead with their wedding in Pakistan controlled Kashmir’s remote Neelum Valley. The young bride, dressed in gold bangles and a scarlet robe, expressed a steadfast resolve. "In our childhood, the situation was also like this, but we are not afraid. Nor will we be," Bibi said as she was carried to the wedding venue in a traditional doli carriage.

Similarly, the groom, a 23 year old chef, remained undeterred by the current political climate. “People are anxious and worried, but even so, we haven’t cancelled any traditional ceremonies,” Junaid remarked, dressed in an ornate sherwani and red and gold turban.

The backdrop to these celebrations is the rising tensions between India and Pakistan, triggered by an April 22 attack in Indian administered Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians. In the wake of the attack, India accused Pakistan of supporting the militants, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi granted the military operational freedom to respond. The two sides have exchanged gunfire along the heavily militarised border, with Pakistan showcasing its military readiness by launching a missile.

Despite these developments, life in parts of Pakistan administered Kashmir appears to continue as normal, with locals even holding weddings amidst rising anxieties. In another village, Shoaib Akhtar, a 25 year old mechanical engineer, also celebrated his wedding, saying, “This is the happiest occasion of our lives, and we won’t let anything ruin it.”

While the political situation grows increasingly tense, both couples, along with their families, chose to carry on with their celebrations, a small but poignant display of resilience amid the uncertainty. As Bibi put it, “We stand firm and will fight for our interests and our nation.”