10,000 Diyas Illuminated at Ghanta Ghar, Srinagar
SUHAIL KHAN
SRINAGAR, Oct 31: For the first time, 10,000 diyas were lit at Ghanta Ghar in Srinagar, while people across Kashmir also celebrated the Diwali festival by lighting diyas.
Reports reaching Kashmir Despatch said that as the overall situation in the region improves, citizens are not only witnessing development but are also fostering camaraderie. This has led to the renewed celebration of various festivals.
Once again, it was noted in the busiest market of the summer capital Srinagar that people illuminated the night with diyas in celebration of Diwali.
All major temples in Srinagar and other parts of the valley were adorned for the Diwali celebrations, according to reports. Bridges, buildings, and landmarks—including the historic Ghanta Ghar in Lal Chowk—were decorated with vibrant lights to mark the festival of lights.
In a historic first, diyas (earthen lamps) were lit at the Ghanta Ghar. Both tourists and locals flocked to the iconic clock tower to celebrate the festival together.
Reports further indicate that sweet shops and markets in Srinagar and throughout the valley saw a significant increase in foot traffic, with individuals from Hindu, Sikh, and even Muslim communities bustling about, exchanging Diwali greetings and sweets with those celebrating the festival.
Hindu men and women visited temples to offer special prayers during this auspicious occasion. Many areas experienced the bursting of firecrackers, creating colorful patterns in the sky.
Security personnel also joined in the Diwali celebrations at Badamibagh, Awantipora, and other camps in Kashmir, where soldiers organized festive parties within their respective units.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extended his greetings to the public: “Deepawali, the festival of lights, is an occasion to share joy and festivity across all faiths and cultures. The diyas of Deepawali signify the end of ignorance, the triumph of good over evil, and hope over despair. They inspire us to combat the darkness in all spheres of life. May this Deepawali usher in prosperity and happiness for all and illuminate the path of progress and well-being,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
