Srinagar, Oct 27: The ancient Shri Durgeshwari Temple at Bana Mohalla in Srinagar’s Fateh Kadal area is witnessing a revival, with residents and well-wishers joining hands to restore the historic shrine and preserve Kashmir’s cultural heritage.

Dedicated to Maa Durga, the temple holds deep religious and emotional significance for Kashmiri Pandit families, connecting them with their ancestral roots, traditions and memories.
The restoration initiative began in September 2026 under the leadership of Shashi Tickoo, who initially undertook repairs to the temple’s main entrance gate to protect the premises from further deterioration. Three gates were subsequently repaired and fitted with locks.
The effort soon grew into a community initiative, with Tickoo creating a WhatsApp group to mobilise support and coordinate restoration activities. A new water connection was secured, while electricity, lighting, cleaning, repair and painting work improved the temple’s condition.
Tickoo also approached Srinagar Deputy Commissioner Akshay Labroo and other authorities, seeking institutional support and improvements in the surrounding area, including the development of a park.
Ashok Razdan extended significant support to the initiative, helping mobilise resources and sustain the restoration work. The organisers expressed gratitude to him, local residents and other well-wishers for their contributions.
For Kashmiri Pandit families associated with Bana Mohalla and Fateh Kadal, the shrine represents more than a place of worship. It is a symbol of ancestral ties, faith and Kashmir’s shared cultural heritage.
Those involved in the initiative hope the effort will inspire wider community participation in preserving historic temples and other heritage sites across the Valley. What began with the repair of a gate has evolved into a collective effort to safeguard the shrine for future generations.