Srinagar, May 04: For the past 45 years, Abdul Rahman Kumar from Dalgate in Srinagar has been visiting Hajj departure points to see off pilgrims leaving for the annual pilgrimage. Despite his regular presence, Kumar has never made the journey himself.
Now in his seventies, Kumar continues to stand among the families and well-wishers each Hajj season. He raises his hands in prayer and watches quietly as the pilgrims leave. He said it brings him peace to be close to those heading for the pilgrimage, even though he is not among them.
As Per Kashmir Bulletin, Kumar has not performed Hajj due to financial constraints. Living in poverty, he said he has never been able to afford the cost. But that has not stopped him from coming every year.
“Every time someone leaves, I ask them to remember me in their prayers when they reach Makkah,” he said. “Maybe one day, someone will remember me enough for Allah to open a way.”
Over the years, Kumar has become a familiar face at the departure sites. Some pilgrims now look for him before they leave. He greets them, prays for them, and stands in silence as they depart.
He said he does not miss a season. “As long as I am alive and able to walk, I will come,” he added. (KB)
