Diwali celebrated with religious fervour in Kashmir
Srinagar, Oct 20: The festival of lights, Diwali, was celebrated across Kashmir on Monday with devotion and brotherhood.
From the bustling markets of Lal Chowk to the temples across the region, the Valley shimmered in the glow of countless diyas that turned the autumn night into a spectacle.
Meanwhile, the Ghanta Ghar at Lal Chowk, stood transformed into a beacon of festivity.
The devotees had draped the landmark in strings of lights and surrounded by rows of earthen lamps. Locals and tourists thronged the square, clicking pictures and recording reels to capture the rare sight of Srinagar bathed in golden hues.
“It feels surreal to see such vibrancy here. The spirit of Diwali in Srinagar is unlike anywhere else. It is peaceful, soulful, and full of smiles. We celebrated Diwali at Dal Lake last night, and the reflection of lamps on the water was simply magical,” said Anjali, a tourist from Delhi who is visiting Kashmir with her family.
Across the Valley, Kashmiri Pandits performed Lakshmi Pooja, seeking blessings for prosperity and peace.
The temples at Amira Kadal and Habba Kadal in Srinagar remained abuzz throughout the evening as devotees offered prayers and lit lamps in honour of goddess Lakshmi and lord Ganesha.
“Diwali is a festival that reminds us that light always conquers darkness. We pray not only for our families but for peace and harmony across Kashmir. Our Muslim neighbours also came over to greet us, share sweets, and join in the celebration. This is the Kashmir we know and love,” said a local Kashmir Pandit.
The confectionary shops and markets of Srinagar witnessed a heavy rush throughout the day, with locals purchasing traditional delicacies, candles, and decorative lights.
Many Muslims joined their Hindu friends in exchanging sweets and greetings, a gesture that once again highlighted Kashmir’s timeless tradition of communal brotherhood.
“Festivals like Diwali and Eid are occasions where hearts meet beyond religion. Today we visited our Pandit friends and prayed for each other,” said Adil, a Srinagar resident.
As the evening descended, the sky over Srinagar burst into colours with fireworks lighting up Dal Lake, Rajbagh, and the city outskirts.
People dressed in bright traditional attire could be seen taking pictures, and sharing joyous moments under the illuminated skyline.
The devotees said the administration and security forces had made elaborate arrangements to ensure smooth celebrations across Kashmir.
Traffic Police officials said that they had pressed more men in the major spots to manage the flow of vehicles, while Police and CRPF personnel were deployed near temples and marketplaces to maintain order.
Diwali symbolising the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness resonated deeply in Kashmir this year.
The spirit of renewal and hope was palpable, as families gathered to decorate their homes with candles, marigolds, and colourful rangolis.
Political leaders from across parties and the Lieutenant Governor’s office extended greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
As midnight approached, locals said that the sounds of devotional songs, and fireworks echoed through Kashmir.
