Baramulla, Oct 22: Restoration work has resumed at the historic 600-year-old Shivling at Kalibagh in Baramulla, marking a significant step towards preserving the region’s rich religious and cultural heritage.

The ongoing restoration has been welcomed by members of the local Pandit community as well as the Muslim community, with the initiative emerging as a symbol of communal harmony and mutual respect in Kashmir.
Deputy Commissioner Baramulla reviewed the progress of the restoration work, taking stock of the ongoing efforts to preserve the historic site. The visit underlined the administration’s focus on protecting heritage structures that hold religious, historical and cultural significance.
Speaking to Brighter Kashmir, Avtar Krishan Bhat, Convenor of PM Package Employees Kashmir and Chief Spokesperson of JKTA Baramulla, welcomed the resumption of the work and highlighted the importance of safeguarding the region’s shared heritage.
He said the restoration of the centuries-old Shivling was significant not only for the Pandit community but also for preserving Kashmir’s broader cultural legacy. He also appreciated the positive response from members of the Muslim community, describing such gestures as a reflection of the Valley’s longstanding traditions of coexistence and mutual respect.
The historic site holds religious significance for devotees and forms part of Kashmir’s diverse heritage. Its restoration is expected to help preserve the structure for future generations while reinforcing the importance of protecting places associated with the region’s history and faith traditions.
The development also highlights the role of local communities and the administration in safeguarding heritage sites through collective efforts. In a region known for its composite cultural traditions, such initiatives can strengthen social bonds and promote understanding across communities.
Residents and community representatives have welcomed the resumption of the work, expressing hope that the restoration will be carried forward with due care and respect for the site’s historical and religious importance.
The restoration of the Kalibagh Shivling stands as a reminder that preserving Kashmir’s heritage is a shared responsibility—one that transcends religious boundaries and helps keep alive the region’s legacy of coexistence.