Srinagar, Mar 18: For most children in Srinagar, the days leading up to Eid-ul-Fitr are filled with the excitement of trying on new clothes and the joy of festive anticipation. But for a group of six young friends from the city, this Eid meant something more: it meant becoming the reason for that joy in someone else’s life.
Meet Momin and his five friends—college-going youth from Soura who decided to trade their own shopping lists for a mission of kindness.
Speaking to Kashmir Convener Mominn said that the initiative was fully funded by their pocket money. He said, “Recently, I saw a young boy asking a woman for money to buy clothes. The desperation in his eyes stayed with me. I immediately spoke to my friends, and together we decided against waiting for others to step in. We have our own means, and we want to ensure every child experiences the joy of Eid.”
“We pooled our money, went directly to the local shops, and selected new outfits for the children,” Momin said. “We have every bill for transparency—everything is brand new. Our families were our biggest cheerleaders, encouraging us to use our savings from the very start.”
On Wednesday, the group of friends called out to those in need, urging any child passing by to come and receive a gift.
Another group member told Kashmir Convener, “Eid is about sharing happiness, and just being able to provide some small help—I think this is our real Eid.” He added, “If you need help, we are right here. Please come forward, because during this holy month of Ramadan, a Muslim should respect these values and should think about those around them just as we think about our own family.”
Saleem, a shopkeeper present on the occasion, told Kashmir Convener: “It’s really great to see how these kids are setting an example in this holy month of Ramadan. On one hand, we parents are concerned about our children, as they often get involved in wrong practices. Seeing these children, on the other hand, feels really good, and they have also set an example for others.”
Rizwan, another shopkeeper, said: “Eid teaches us to share our blessings, but often we get caught up in our own celebrations. These young boys haven’t just given away clothes; they have restored our faith in the goodness of humanity. They are a reminder that the spirit of Eid lives in the hearts of our youth.”
Speaking to Kashmir Convener, locals who witnessed them said, “In a time when headlines are often dominated by conflict, this small act of generosity from six friends shines a powerful light on the true essence of the Valley. They haven’t just helped a few children dress up for the festival; they have dressed the entire occasion in the colors of compassion, proving that the most valuable gift you can give is the joy of giving itself.”
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