Mother’s Day is celebrated worldwide to honour and appreciate the contributions and sacrifices of mothers in our lives. In the beautiful Kashmir valley, the celebration of Mother’s Day holds a special significance due to the region’s rich cultural and traditional values. Mother’s Day in Kashmir is also celebrated to express gratitude towards mothers and mother like figures who have shaped our lives. The day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May, in the rest of the world. Mother’s Day is a heart-warming affair in every Kashmiri home. Simple but touching gestures are used. Every child makes sure to spend precious moments with the one person who loves them unconditionally. What makes it even more unique is the emotional efforts that are put in to make each moment special and memorable. Kashmir being predominantly Muslim, prayers are dedicated for all mothers, on this day – even a special prayer called ‘Dua-e-Magfirat’ for the departed mothers. Every mother is remembered. Its true reflection comes to the fore that “God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers.”

Another important tradition of Mother’s Day in Kashmir is the exchange of gifts. People buy gifts for their mothers, including flowers, chocolates, jewelry, and clothing. Some families also prepare special meals for their mothers, including traditional Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, and Wazwan. Apart from these traditional celebrations, there are also modern ways to celebrate Mother’s Day in Kashmir. What better way than to give a day off to your mother and make her feel like a queen! Forget all materialistic pleasures and shower her with all the love in the world. Take her out for dinner, shopping or plan a fun filled day just for her.

Despite several challenges, Kashmiri mothers have played a vital role in keeping their families and communities together. They have been the backbone of their families, providing emotional and financial support, and raising their children with love and care. On Mother’s Day, the people of Kashmir take the opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate these efforts, and to show their solidarity with the mothers of the region. Mother’s Day in Kashmir is also an occasion to raise awareness about the issues faced by Kashmiri mothers. The region has also witnessed a rise in domestic violence and abuse during the COVID-19 Pandemic. On Mother’s Day, many organizations and civil society groups in Kashmir organize events to highlight these issues and advocate for the rights of Kashmiri women. These events include seminars, workshops, and awareness campaigns that aim to empower Kashmiri women and create a safer and more just society for them.

Mother’s Day in Kashmir is a day to celebrate the love and sacrifices of mothers. It carries a deeper meaning in the context of the region’s political and social situation. It is a day to honour the resilience and strength of Kashmiri mothers who have faced immense challenges in their lives. It is also an occasion to raise awareness about the various issues faced by Kashmiri women and to advocate for their rights. By celebrating Mother’s Day in Kashmir, not only is love and gratitude expressed towards mothers but also all stand in solidarity with women of the region who continue to inspire each other with courage and determination.