A year after the deadly attack in Pahalgam, a Kashmiri tourist guide who saved 11 lives has recalled the horror of that day, saying the memories will stay with him forever.
On April 22, 2025, gunmen opened fire in the scenic Baisaran Valley, often called “Mini Switzerland,” killing 26 people, most of them tourists. The sudden attack turned a peaceful tourist spot into a scene of chaos and fear.
“At first, I thought it was an encounter”
Nazakat Ali, a 30-year-old guide and shawl trader, was accompanying a group of tourists from Chhattisgarh that day. Recalling the moment, he said, “We reached Baisaran around noon. Everyone was enjoying. There are activities like zip lining and the tourists were very happy.”
He said the firing began around 1:15 pm. “At first, it felt like maybe there was an encounter between the army and terrorists. But then we realised tourists were being targeted,” he told NDTV.
Guided tourists through forest for 7 km
As panic spread, Nazakat acted quickly. “I told my guests to lie down on the ground immediately. I also lay down with them,” he said.
Using his knowledge of the area, he then led the group away from the open meadow into safer routes. “When the firing moved towards the exit, I took them through the forest. We kept running for nearly 7 kilometres to reach Pahalgam,” he said.
After reaching safety, he discovered that two women from the group had been left behind. Without hesitation, he went back.
“I returned and brought them back safely. Everyone was scared and exhausted, but we managed to escape,” he said.
Personal loss amid bravery
While he managed to save others, Nazakat also suffered a personal tragedy. His relative, Syed Adil Hussain Shah, was among those killed in the attack.
“I was there that day. I can never forget April 22 in my life. Humanity was killed that day,” he said.
Honoured for bravery, calls tourists back to Kashmir
On the eve of the anniversary, Nazakat was honoured at an event in Raipur, attended by Bhupesh Baghel. He received recognition for his courage in saving lives during the attack.
A year later, he says the situation in Kashmir is improving and tourists are slowly returning.
“Not just one, but hundreds of Nazakats are ready to welcome tourists,” he said.
He also appealed to people to visit Kashmir again. “Tourists should come. We are here for your safety and hospitality. Kashmir is the crown of India—people should come and see its beauty,” he said.
Tourism hit but hopes of recovery
Nazakat said the attack had badly affected local livelihoods. “For three to four months after the attack, tourists stopped coming. People here faced many difficulties,” he said.
