Actor Atul Kulkarni has made a strong statement by visiting Kashmir's Pahalgam region just days after a tragic terrorist attack rocked the area. In a time when fear and uncertainty have gripped many travelers, Atul decided to lead by example, urging fellow Indians not to cancel their travel plans and instead stand firmly with Kashmir and its people.
Speaking to BBC News Hindi during his journey to Pahalgam, Atul Kulkarni emphasized that Kashmir is "very safe" for tourists. He encouraged people to cancel other plans and prioritize visiting Kashmir instead. His message was loud and clear: "Kashmir humara hai (Kashmir is ours)," and no act of terror should weaken the bond between Kashmir and the rest of India.
A Visit Laden With Meaning
Atul’s visit came only a few days after a terror attack on April 22 that left the nation grieving. Instead of limiting his response to mere words on social media, the actor took a bold and heartfelt step. “What happened on the 22nd was a very tragic incident; this should not have happened. When I read about it, I thought — every time something like this happens, what do we do? We post on social media, we talk to friends, we write something. But then I thought, what can I actually do in real action?” Atul said.
True to his thoughts, he chose action over words. By physically visiting Pahalgam, he intended to send a strong message of solidarity and resilience — both to the terrorists who wish to spread fear and to the people of Kashmir who rely heavily on tourism for their livelihood.
Support for Kashmiriyat
Kulkarni stressed the importance of preserving and nurturing the growing relationship between Kashmir and the Indian mainland. He pointed out that the Valley had been seeing a surge in tourist numbers over the last couple of years, a trend that should not be disrupted by acts of violence.
"Itni badi tadaat mein log arahe the yaha 1-2 saalon mein. Achanak se agar rukh gaye hum log toh ek jo sambandh ban rahe hai mainland aur Kashmir ka woh rukna nahi chahiye...Jo atanwadiyon ne humein message diye ki, 'Yaha mat aiyye.' Toh nahi, hum toh ayenge, humara Kashmir hai, hum yaha ayenge, badi tadaat mein ayenge," Atul passionately stated.
(Translation: "People were coming here in huge numbers in the last 1-2 years. If we suddenly stop, the bond that is being formed between Kashmir and the mainland should not be broken... The terrorists gave us a message saying, 'Don't come here.' But no, we will come. Kashmir is ours, and we will come here, and in large numbers.")
Through his words, Atul highlighted that the real way to defeat the intentions of those spreading terror is to refuse to be intimidated. By continuing to visit Kashmir, Indians can show that fear will not dictate their actions.
Standing by the People of Kashmir
During his visit, Atul Kulkarni expressed grief over the suffering caused by the attack but also spoke of hope and resilience. He acknowledged the devastating impact on local tourism, revealing that 90% of bookings had been canceled following the attack — a massive blow during what should have been peak tourist season.
Tourism is the backbone of Kashmir’s economy. With visitors canceling trips, many locals who depend on tourism for their daily livelihood are left struggling. By urging people to continue visiting Kashmir, Atul not only gave a morale boost to the Valley but also encouraged economic support for countless families who rely on the sector.
"We need to support Kashmiriyat and the Kashmiri people," he said, reinforcing the idea that visiting Kashmir is not just a leisure activity anymore but a meaningful gesture of solidarity and brotherhood.
Sharing His Journey
After reaching Pahalgam, Atul Kulkarni shared several pictures from his trip, giving a glimpse of the region’s beauty and calm. His posts were filled with serene landscapes, reinforcing his message that Kashmir is safe, welcoming, and as breathtaking as ever.
Through his visual updates, Atul hoped to reassure people that despite isolated incidents, the overall situation in Kashmir remains stable, especially in tourist hubs like Pahalgam. His real-time accounts served as a testament to the safety and hospitality that the Valley continues to offer.
A Befitting Reply to Terrorism
Atul Kulkarni's move comes as a significant moment of inspiration at a time when many might be rethinking their plans to visit Kashmir. He transformed his grief into action, giving a befitting reply to those who attempt to disrupt peace through violence.
By encouraging people to travel to Kashmir, Atul is doing more than promoting tourism — he’s championing the idea that unity, love, and courage are far stronger than fear. He is reminding everyone that the true spirit of Kashmir, and indeed of India, lies in standing together against forces that aim to divide.
His stance also resonates with the growing sentiment across the country. Other celebrities like Suniel Shetty have echoed similar emotions. Suniel, too, had recently stated that his next vacation would be in Kashmir, urging people to be fearless and support the Valley.
Atul Kulkarni’s visit to Pahalgam is not just a personal trip; it’s a message to millions. In times when fear threatens to overpower hope, Atul chose to walk into the heart of Kashmir and stand by its people. His powerful statement — "Humara Kashmir hai, hum ayenge" — embodies the spirit of resilience that defines India.
Instead of succumbing to fear, Kulkarni has shown that real patriotism lies in action. His journey is a call to all Indians to not abandon Kashmir in its hour of need but to strengthen the bond that holds the nation together.