Presence of Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah in Kanak Mandi, the business hub of the winter capital city of Jammu on Friday evening, had an electrifying effect with people in huge numbers assembling and jostling to have a close look of the former Chief Minister.Attired in black Bandhgala suit and a matching Karakuli, Dr Abdullah acknowledged the wishes of people with his charismatic smile and exchanged pleasantries with them. The youngsters, including Vaisahno Devi pilgrims, locals and those from the Valley and Ladakh, pushed each other to have Selfies and quick word with him.
Accompanied by Provincial President, Devender Singh Rana, the National Conference President was honoured with a shawl by the President of Kanak Mandi Traders Association, Vijay Gupta as a token of affection. The members of the business community garlanded him profusely and welcomed him to the celebrations marking Makar Sankrati.
Dr Abdullah wished the people prosperous, joyous and peaceful 2016 with a hope that such auspicious occasions will prove as harbinger of amity, tranquility and harmony in the society.
It took him two hours to pass through the busy heritage market which otherwise is just a five-minute walk. No sooner, he made an impromptu appearance in the famous heritage Raghunath Bazar, several shopkeepers alighted from their shops and shook hands with him.
Dr Abdullah waved at the people assembled on the pavements wishes pilgrims’ blissful pilgrimage and sat for a while at the business establishments of known acquaintances.
He also distributed sweets among the people.
He interacted with pilgrim tourists belonging to various states and enquired about their experience with the time-tested hospitality of the city people.
He hoped that the incoming visitors will carry cherished memories of their visit to Jammu and Mata Vaishno Devi and return back with a message of peace from the state of Jammu and Kashmir, known for its unity in diversity.
Many people apprised NC President about various problems and sought his intervention in getting these solved.
