Srinagar: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) spokesperson Zuhaib Mir has expressed discontent over the naming of the newly inaugurated Yatra Bhavan, calling it “oddly unfair” that it has been named after Seth Shri Premchand Garg instead of a revered Kashmiri spiritual figure.
Mir acknowledged the spirit of hospitality embedded in Kashmiri culture, stating,
“Kashmiris love hospitality and the coming of Yatris and hosting them is our greatest honour.”
However, he said a name rooted in local spiritual tradition would have been more inclusive. He suggested that figures like Acharya Abhinavagupta, Utpaladeva, Keshav Banduji, Nund Reshi, or any Kashmiri Shaivite philosopher would have been more fitting.
“Unfortunately even the Kashmiri sages are not given the recognition they well deserve,” he added.
Despite the criticism, Mir reiterated Kashmir’s continued warmth towards pilgrims:
“Anyway, we welcome them with open arms and may their spiritual journey be fulfilling.”
