PUNE: They have come to the city for the first time, from the beautiful valley of Jammu and Kashmir, for cultural exchange and to know their country better. The group of the visitors from the terror-stricken valley, are enthusiastic and curious to learn more about other states. Most of them are the victims of terrorism and living in a migratory camp of Jammu.

When asked to narrate their experience in Pune, Shikha Pandita, a nine-year old Std III student of Jammu Government School, said, “We visited Snake Park and Sarasbaug. We also went to the Hanging Garden and Juhu Chowpati in Mumbai. I liked all the places, but I loved the Chowpati most. I would definitely like to come back to Pune again.”

A paramedical trainer, Pankaj Handu finds Pune better than Mumbai. “Mumbai is much more crowded and the weather is also very humid there, but Pune is a nice city,” Pankaj said.

However, he found the number of vehicles on the roads here too excessive. “There is no place to walk at leisure. Back home, we walk long stretches without any hindrance,” he remarked. Replying to a query whether he found it safer here, Pankaj said, “People have misconceptions that Jammu is not a safe place. But it is not true. We are safe there and even have opportunities of employments in our state.”

Mohammad Abdullah, the only Muslim member in the group, recites Hanuman Chalisa every day. He said, “The unity between Hindus and Muslims in Jammu is very strong. We have one language and culture and terrorists cannot break our unity.” 

Disha Handu of Std XI and Bharati Kaul, a BSc student, will like to come back to the city to pursue their further education.

 They also visited the Sarhad School for J&K children here. The group will leave for Delhi on Friday.