Aazan Manzoor
Srinagar, Nov 8 (JKNS): Srinagar’s historic Lal Chowk witnessed vibrant Diwali celebrations on Sunday evening as more than 10,000 earthen lamps illuminated the iconic Ghanta Ghar, with members of different communities coming together to celebrate the festival of lights in an atmosphere of joy, unity and brotherhood.
Details available with news agency JKNS stated that members of Hindu, Sikh and Muslim communities participated in the celebrations, reflecting the spirit of communal harmony and togetherness in Kashmir.
More than 10,000 earthen lamps (diyas) illuminated the historic clock tower and its adjoining areas, transforming Lal Chowk into a spectacular sight and attracting large gatherings of locals and visitors.
The celebrations also witnessed participation from tourists belonging to different parts of the country, who expressed happiness over experiencing Diwali in Kashmir.
A tourist, while sharing his experience, said that celebrating Diwali in Srinagar felt like a dream, as people from different communities were lighting earthen lamps together and enjoying the festival in an atmosphere of peace and harmony.
“We have been staying here for three to four days now. Celebrating Diwali here feels like a dream. Look around, Hindus and Muslims are lighting earthen lamps together, and everyone is happy. Kashmir is very beautiful, but its beauty has been sustained by the Kashmiris themselves,” the tourist said.
A local resident said that Diwali had not been celebrated on such a large scale in Kashmir for many years, but the festivities at Lal Chowk had witnessed a renewed enthusiasm since last year.
He said the recent celebrations of Dussehra followed by Diwali at Lal Chowk reflected the growing spirit of brotherhood and positivity in the Valley.
“This is a very big thing for tourists as well as locals of Jammu and Kashmir. My message is that this brotherhood, positivity and tradition of bringing festivals of every religion to the forefront should continue, and prosperity should prevail here,” he said.
The evening turned into a symbol of togetherness as people lit diyas, exchanged festive greetings and captured the beautifully illuminated Lal Chowk on their cameras, celebrating the occasion beyond religious boundaries. (JKNS)
