US-Iran War: Social media is full of posts in which people in Kashmir showed immense support to Iran amid the intense war with the US and Israel since February 28. If you are thinking it is only the 'Shia Muslim' connection that has prompted them to donate their ornaments and money to help Tehran, you are mistaken. There are historical, cultural and social factors that brought them close to Iranians. Many would not know that Kashmir is called 'Iran-e-Sagheer', which means 'little Iran', which highlights the deep-rooted cultural, historical and religious ties between Kashmir and Iran.

Why Is Kashmir Called 'Iran-e-Sagheer'?

Muslim scholars in Kashmir say the metaphor - 'Iran-e-Sagheer', reflects the enduring bonds between the two peoples. Between the 14th and 19th centuries, people of Kashmir and Iran were very close. There was active trade and cultural exchange between the two regions. Hazrat Amir Kabir Syed Ali Hamadani, a renowned Persian Sufi saint, arrived in Kashmir in the 1370s and early 1380s, leaving Iranian cultural influence in Kashmir. After the advent of Islam, the Persian language spread across Kashmir. Persian poetry, Sufi music, architecture, and customs were adopted by Kashmiris, which later became a trademark of the Valley's culture. Subsequently, Kashmir emerged as a prominent centre of Persian literature.

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Kashmiris Stand With Iran In Difficult Times

Cash, gold, silverware, and copper utensils were among the things the people of the valley continued to donate to the relief fund for war-hit Iran. People from all walks of life, including men, women and children, participated in the donation drive. Women, in particular, have come forward and contributed generously by donating gold jewellery, copper utensils, and other valuable household items. Some families also offered livestock.

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Children also played their part by donating their savings and pocket money. Among the donors was a woman who donated the gold kept as a memento of her husband, who died 28 years ago.

The Iranian Embassy in New Delhi on Monday reacted to the gesture, saying the emotions of the people of Kashmir were the greatest source of comfort for the people of Iran.

"A respected sister from Kashmir donated the gold kept as a memento of her husband, who passed away 28 years ago, with a heart full of love and solidarity for the people of Iran," the Iranian Embassy said in a post on X. "Your tears and pure emotions are the greatest source of comfort for the people of Iran and will never be forgotten. Thank you, Kashmir. Thank you, India," it added.

(With PTI inputs)