Panun Kashmir observed Balidan Diwas on September 14 with a solemn, yet resolute programme dedicated to the martyrs of the Kashmiri Hindu community and the security forces at Manhas Sabha Ground, Paloura in Jammu. The event carried profound spiritual and historical significance with the introduction and installation of the Veer Jyoti, a flame consecrated to the memory of the martyrs of seven centuries of genocide.
It may be mentioned here that several Kashmiri Hindu men and women, among them Tika Lal Thaploo, Neelkanth Ganjoo, Satish Ji, Sarla Bhat, Sarvanand Kaul and many others were martyred by Islamist jehadis. This had led to what is called the seventh exodus of Hindus from their homes and hearths in Kashmir.
The programme was moderated by Pyare Lal Raina who invoked the collective memory of the community and prepared the ground for the deliberations. Dr. Ajay Chrungoo, Chairman Panun Kashmir, in his address, dwelt upon the meaning of the Veer Jyoti and explained the sacred shloka inscribed on it, which is recognized in Sanskrit philosophical circles as the spiritual definition of veerta (courage and fortitude).
He stressed how Sanskrit formulations and sacred concepts have historically acted as vital instruments for preserving the religious ethnicity and cultural distinctiveness of Kashmiri Hindus against all assaults. He emphasized that the Veer Jyoti is not merely a flame of memory but a pledge of identity, continuity, and resistance until the community achieves justice and its rightful homeland.
The atmosphere was further elevated with enthralling musical tributes by Kanwal Peshin, Lavanya Koul, Pranav Pandita, and Nitish, who performed in deep reverence, with the audience too joining spontaneously, turning the segment into a collective act of devotion and resilience. Following mantra chanting, senior leaders of Panun Kashmir including Dr. Ajay Chrungoo, Dayji Kaul, Nancy Koul, Prof. Tito Ganju, Kuldeep Raina, P L Koul , Raj Nath Raina and Behari Lal Kaul lit the Veer Jyoti and dedicated it to the martyrs of the Kashmiri Hindu genocide as well as to the martyrs of the security forces who laid down their lives for the nation.
On behalf of J&K Police and the entire security establishment, Shiv Kumar Sharma, IPS, DIG Jammu, paid floral tributes at the Veer Jyoti. His presence symbolised the collective homage of the security forces who have stood shoulder to shoulder with the community, sacrificing their lives in the fight against terrorism. In his tribute, he underscored that the valor and supreme sacrifices of the security personnel and the Kashmiri Hindu martyrs are part of a shared history of resistance, and the Amar Jyoti would serve as a unifying flame of remembrance for both.
In a motorcade accompanied by hundreds of activists, the Veer Jyoti was then taken to the sacred Bhadrakali Temple, Thalwal, where it was installed as the Amar Jyoti. Amid spirited chants and slogans, the leadership of Panun Kashmir declared that the Amar Jyoti shall remain lit till the creation of the homeland, after which it will take its final place in the permanent memorial to be raised at the temple site.
The event witnessed the participation of a huge number of community members, many of whom were attending such a large collective commemoration after a long time. The overwhelming and emotional response to the programme reflected the depth of attachment and reverence the community holds for its martyrs. For countless attendees, the day marked not only remembrance but also a renewed commitment to the collective cause, making the occasion a truly historical milestone in the community’s journey of resilience and return.
On this solemn occasion, Panun Kashmir expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the many organizations and individuals whose solidarity has strengthened the community’s resolve. First and foremost, deep gratitude was extended to Swami Ram Shaiv Ashram, Paloura, for its enduring spiritual guidance and steadfast support. Panun Kashmir also warmly acknowledged Jai Krishen Khar Ji and Sanjay Raina Ji along with their management team for their dedicated role in empowering this collective journey of memory.
Special thanks were extended to the Kashmiri Hindu Foundation (KHF), USA, with particular acknowledgment of the inspiration of Deepak Ganju, the youthful commitment of Ankit Monga, and the steadfast support of all KHF members who, even while residing abroad, have kept alive the memory of this day of sacrifice. Panun Kashmir also expressed appreciation to Shri Aalakh Sahiba Trust, to Ravu Dhar Ji and its management, whose spiritual strength and cooperation have continuously nourished the struggle.
Acknowledgment was also made to the Rainawari Action Committee, with special remembrance of Jalali Sahib, Rakesh Hangloo, Mahesh Kaul, and every member of the committee, who kept the flame of hope alive even in the ashes of displacement. Panun Kashmir extended its thanks to the Kashmir Pandit Sabha, Mumbai, whose consistent cooperation has lent strength to the movement in every circumstance. Above all, the Bhadrakali Temple management was offered special gratitude for providing sacred space and support for the installation of the Amar Jyoti, which elevated the day’s commemoration with sanctity and dignity.
In addition, Panun Kashmir conveyed heartfelt gratitude to Kashmiri Lal Bhat, Advocate and Patron of the Prem Nath Bhat Memorial Trust, whose unwavering dedication has fortified the collective memory of martyrdom and justice. The leadership also acknowledged the lifelong contributions of Pyare Lal Kaul Badgami, the commitment of Rajnath Raina, and the steadfast leadership of Nancy Kaul, President of Daughters of Vitasta, who continues to inspire the younger generation to hold firm to their heritage and responsibilities.
As Panun Kashmir leaders declared, September 14 is not merely a day of remembrance but a day of pledge. It is a historic moment when the community bows before its martyrs through the Amar Jyoti. This flame will continue to guide the struggle until the homeland is established. Balidan Diwas is not simply commemoration; it is a source of energy, a call to the community not to allow injustice to history, and an affirmation to preserve identity with unshakable resolve. The collective voice of the gathering proclaimed: we are indomitable, we are steadfast, and we shall return to our Homeland, our Panun Kashmir.
