by Shoaib Nazir / Umar Dar
SRINAGAR: In the emotionally charged atmosphere of Hajj 2026 departures, where pilgrims bid tearful farewells to their loved ones, a single photograph captured a moment that transcended the boundaries of religion and identity.
Shot by intern Shariq Shafi of Kashmir Life, alongside multimedia journalist Shoaib Nazir, the image shows a woman pilgrim sharing a heartfelt gesture with a Hindu police officer—an expression marked by warmth, respect and quiet joy. Captured during routine coverage of the Hajj departures, the photograph quickly gained widespread attention across social media platforms.
What began as a routine assignment soon turned into a powerful visual narrative. The image resonated deeply with audiences, symbolising communal harmony and a human connection that rises above differences.
Shortly after it surfaced online, the photograph was widely shared by prominent figures, including senior police officials and political leaders. Among them, DIG Police Imtiyaz Hussain posted it on X, calling it the “picture of the day from Kashmir.”
Political leaders Mohit Bhan and Waheed Para also shared the image, highlighting its message of unity. Mohit Bhan wrote, “As she departs for Haj, her affection speaks louder than words—this is the Kashmir where faith coexists and love is stronger than every divide,” a sentiment later reposted by MLA Pulwama Waheed Parra.
Speaking about the moment, Shoaib Nazir emphasised that the image was not staged but captured spontaneously. “Our team, along with Umaima and Umer Dar, was on assignment to cover the Hajj departures. While working, I noticed Shariq’s eagerness to capture moments despite not having proper equipment. It reminded me of my early days, so I handed him one of my cameras and guided him.”
“Later, when he showed me the images, one frame immediately stood out—a Jammu and Kashmir Police officer, Sonia, with a bindi on her forehead, and a pilgrim woman kissing her. It was a close-up, beautifully framed. I knew instantly it would resonate. The rest is now on the internet.”
For Shariq Shafi, the moment carried deep personal meaning. “The night before, the office was discussing the first Hajj convoy departing early in the morning. As an intern, I was not expected to cover it, but the urge was strong. Late at night, I called my senior, Shoaib Nazir, who was assigned to cover the visuals, and requested him to take me along.”
“He agreed and even left early from his home in Nowgam. At the spot, he handed me a camera—it meant a lot because it showed trust. While everyone was busy capturing visuals, I noticed this moment and took multiple shots.”
“When I later saw my photograph featured prominently and being widely shared online, I felt it had the power to touch hearts—and Alhamdulillah, it did.”
The photograph continues to circulate widely, serving as a reminder that even in times of division, simple human gestures can speak louder than words.
The first batch of Hajj pilgrims from Kashmir departed for Saudi Arabia today.
Hajj is the annual sacred pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and the fifth pillar of Islam, obligatory at least once in a lifetime for every adult Muslim who is physically and financially able.
