Kashmiri Pandit accorded warm welcome by his Muslim neighbours upon his return

May 13, 2019

Srinagar (J&K), May 13 (ANI): Gada Kocha, a famous spice market in the heart of the city of Srinagar, wore an unusual festive look when a crowd of people gathered at one of its shops. These people were not just there to buy goods from the shop but to meet its owner, Pandit Roshan Lal Mawa, who had returned to the valley after a period of over 30 years. The 74-year-old Mawa received a warm welcome by his Muslim neighbours and fellow traders, who eagerly came to his shop to see him. They were very happy to have their old friend and his family back and praised him to take the step. Mawa had to leave the valley in 1990 when he was shot four times by an unknown gunman at his shop. Though he survived the attack, he had to move to New Delhi, where he and his family got settled. Working in Delhi was not easy for Mawas, but after years of hard work, they were successful in establishing their business of dry fruits in the capital city. Though Mawa had a successful stint in Delhi, he could never forget the memories of his hometown. And after 30 years, he decided to go back to Srinagar, where now, he has restarted his business. His decision to take a U-turn in life was backed by his Muslim friends as they came to warmly welcome him. Though in the past three decades, Mawa had visited the valley a number of times for a brief stay but now as he has decided to settle down here again, his love for the place seems to have filled him with new energy and enthusiasm. And this was possible only because of the warmth and love of his Muslim friends that has drawn him back to his place of birth.