Kashmiri guide honoured in Chhattisgarh for saving tourists during Pahalgam terror attack

Surguja: Kashmiri tourist guide Nazakat Ahmad Shah, hailed as a hero for rescuing a group of Chhattisgarh tourists during the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, received an emotional welcome on his return to the state last month. Shah, 30, was greeted with firecrackers, garlands, and heartfelt tributes by the families he had saved and local residents in Chirmiri, where he arrived on October 22 for his seasonal winter business, reported PTI.

Shah was hosting 11 tourists, four couples and three children, from the Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur district when terrorists opened fire in Velagam, killing 26 people, including Raipur resident Dinesh Mirania, and injuring several others. In a moment of courage, Shah picked up two children and led the group to safety, shielding them from the gunfire.

Among the rescued were families of local BJP youth wing leader Arvind Agrawal, Kuldip Sthapak, Shivansh Jain, and Happy Wadhavan. “We were overjoyed to see him again,” said Agrawal. “Around 50 people welcomed him with flowers and garlands. My family and friends thanked him for saving our lives. He even had lunch with us.”

Shah, who spends three months each winter in Chhattisgarh selling shawls and winter wear, said his family has been visiting the region for over three decades. “We share a bond of brotherhood. People here are like our elder brothers,” he said to PTI at Ambikapur in Surguja district. “We stayed in touch with those we had rescued over the phone after the attack, but meeting them in person feels truly special.”

He was also felicitated on stage during Chhath Puja celebrations. “We have always received love from this region because many people from here have stayed at our home during their visit to Kashmir in the past. This time, we were given even more honour,” he said.

Shah appealed to tourists not to cancel their trips to Kashmir, saying the valley remains safe and welcoming. “Last year, around 2 crore people visited Pahalgam. But this year, the footfall significantly declined (after the terror attack). People should visit Kashmir without any fear. There will be an even better welcome than before. I have told many people not to cancel their trips to Kashmir. I told them not one Nazakat, but a thousand will be ready to host you.”

He also praised Operation Sindoor, India’s military response to the attack, calling it a necessary and effective move. “It was a good move. Those who were in the wrong were eliminated. The action sends a message that India has the strength and capability to respond when needed,” Shah said.

For many in Chhattisgarh, Shah’s bravery has become a symbol of humanity and courage in the face of terror, a reminder that bonds of trust and compassion can transcend geography and fear.