Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmir — In a profound display of solidarity and deep-rooted historical bonds, the people of Indian-administered Kashmir have generously contributed their most cherished possessions, including gold and lifelong savings, to aid civilians in Iran facing the brutal US-Israel war. This remarkable humanitarian effort unfolded even as South Asia celebrated Eid-ul-Fitr on March 21, with many Kashmiris setting aside customary rituals to support their brethren over 1,600 km away.
Masrat Mukhtar, a 55-year-old woman from Budgam, exemplified this spirit by donating gold earrings, a precious birthday gift from her father. ‘We give what we love. This brings us closer to them,’ Mukhtar stated, affectionately referring to Kashmir as ‘Little Iran,’ a testament to the enduring bond that persists through time and conflict. Her cousins, children breaking their piggy banks, families offering copper utensils and livestock, and shopkeepers contributing portions of their earnings all joined this noble cause.
This profound connection, spanning over six centuries, has become even more evident during the ongoing conflict, earning heartfelt recognition from Iranian authorities. In Zadibal, Srinagar, 73-year-old Tahera Jan witnessed neighbors donating copper pots, traditionally reserved for daughters’ weddings. ‘We chose to give them instead to daughters who lost mothers and sisters in the attacks,’ Jan explained, highlighting the deep empathy driving these donations. Sadakat Ali Mir, a 24-year-old mini-truck driver, even contributed one of his two vehicles, while children like nine-year-old Zainab Jan selflessly handed over their piggy banks.
While Shia Muslims constitute a significant portion of Kashmir’s population, this wave of generosity has transcended sectarian lines. Numerous Sunni families observed simpler Eid meals, redirecting resources towards Iranian relief, and many shopkeepers closed early to contribute. Political and religious figures, including Budgam lawmaker Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi and Shia scholar Imran Reza Ansari, have lauded the widespread community participation. Similar campaigns of support for Iranians have also been reported from Pakistan, Iraq, and other nations, underscoring a broader regional solidarity.
At the heart of this extraordinary outpouring of support lies the unique cultural ties between Kashmir and what was historically Persia. Sufi scholar Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani’s arrival in the 14th century introduced profound religious practices, art forms, and Persian literary traditions, shaping Kashmir’s identity and earning it the moniker ‘Iran-e-Sagheer,’ or Little Iran. Scholar Irshad Ahmad notes that these donation drives draw directly from this rich historical reservoir, with prayers, rituals, and art forms reflecting these longstanding connections. As lecturer Sakina Hassan aptly puts it, ‘People are not only parting with objects; they are sharing emotional continuity.’
With over 2,000 lives tragically lost in Iran during the conflict, the humanitarian need is immense. The scope of donations from Kashmir is truly significant, with local authorities estimating contributions up to six billion rupees ($64 million) in cash, gold, jewelry, household items, livestock, and vehicles. Collection points across Srinagar, Budgam, and Baramulla have been bustling with volunteers meticulously documenting every contribution, from small coins and piggy banks to medical kits assembled by local doctors.
The Iranian embassy in New Delhi expressed profound gratitude, initially posting on X: ‘We sincerely thank the kind people of Kashmir for standing with the people of Iran through their humanitarian support and heartfelt solidarity; this kindness endures.’ The embassy later reiterated its thanks to the people of India and Kashmir, noting that Kashmir’s contributions form a substantial portion – over 40 percent – of donations from India.
While Indian authorities have raised some administrative concerns regarding collection methods, emphasizing the importance of transparent monitoring, the organizers of the Kashmir drives for Iran firmly assert that all efforts are purely humanitarian, aimed at alleviating the suffering of those affected by the conflict. This unwavering commitment to humanitarian aid and solidarity stands as a testament to the unbreakable bond between Kashmir and Iran.