Editorial photo #13590914 Human Interest

Hajj Pilgrimage Of Muslims In Kashmir, India

Volunteers check the baggage of Kashmiri Hajj pilgrims as they begin their spiritual journey from Srinagar, India, on April 18, 2026. Executive Officer of the Hajj Committee Dr. Shujaat told a local news agency that three flights carrying a total of 431 pilgrims are scheduled to leave from Srinagar on the first day of departures. The group includes 230 men and 201 women who will depart from Srinagar to perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. Several nations, including the United States, have issued advisories asking their citizens to reconsider participation in this year's Hajj due to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Israel, the United States, and Iran. (Photo by Faisal Khan/NurPhoto)