Kashmir spiritual event draws political, religious opposition

Political and religious leaders in Kashmir have voiced opposition to a spiritual retreat planned for the Gurez valley in northern Kashmir later this month. The event, titled 'Tantra in Silence', is scheduled to run from September 24 to 27 and will be attended by Swami Dhyan Sumit, who heads the Shree Rajneesh Foundation.

Promotion of the event through posters announcing the spiritual leader's participation has triggered concerns among local stakeholders in the valley. The nature of the opposition and specific grievances raised by protesters were not immediately detailed.

Gurez valley, located in the Bandipora district of Kashmir, is known as a remote mountainous region. The area has historically been sensitive to activities perceived as conflicting with local cultural or religious sensibilities.

The planned event highlights ongoing tensions in Kashmir surrounding the hosting of certain spiritual and cultural programmes, particularly those featuring figures or practices viewed with skepticism by sections of the local population. Such protests reflect broader discussions about religious and cultural identity in the region.