Thousands of diyas light up Srinagar's Lal Chowk as locals, tourists celebrate Diwali

Srinagar's historic Lal Chowk came alive with grand Diwali celebrations on Sunday as thousands of earthen lamps illuminated the iconic Ghanta Ghar, drawing large crowds of residents and tourists to the heart of the city.

The clock tower and its surroundings were decorated with colourful lights, transforming the popular landmark into a brightly illuminated venue for the festival. People gathered around the tower, lighting diyas, exchanging greetings and capturing photographs of the celebrations.

More than 10,000 earthen lamps were lit around the clock tower and adjoining areas, creating a striking display as visitors from different parts of the country joined local residents in marking the occasion.

People from Hindu, Muslim and Sikh communities participated in the festivities, reflecting the region's tradition of communal harmony and shared cultural celebrations.

The celebrations attracted tourists visiting Kashmir during the festive season, many of whom expressed happiness at experiencing Diwali in Srinagar.

A visitor from Gujarat said it was his first Diwali in the city and described the celebrations at Lal Chowk as a memorable experience.

Another tourist from New Delhi, visiting Kashmir for the first time, expressed appreciation for the festive atmosphere and said the celebrations reflected a positive experience of the Valley.

𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬

The celebrations brought together visitors and residents at one of Srinagar's most recognisable public spaces, with the illuminated clock tower serving as the centrepiece of the event.

Tourists gathered around the rows of glowing diyas, while local residents joined in lighting lamps and exchanging festive greetings.

Ankush Chatterjee, a tourist from Kolkata, said he was delighted to celebrate Diwali in Kashmir and praised the atmosphere around the historic landmark.

The celebrations also included prayers, devotional activities and fireworks, with people gathering near the clock tower throughout the evening.

Lal Chowk has hosted Diwali celebrations in recent years, with tourists and local residents assembling at Ghanta Ghar to mark the festival.

Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah extended Diwali greetings, wishing people happiness, peace and prosperity.

𝐀𝐫𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐨𝐂

Meanwhile, Indian Army personnel deployed along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir celebrated Diwali at their respective posts and military installations, away from their families.

Soldiers lit traditional lamps, performed puja and offered prayers for the peace, prosperity and security of the country while continuing their operational duties along the border.

The celebrations provided an opportunity for personnel stationed in remote areas to observe the festival together despite being separated from their loved ones.

Security personnel across the Valley also marked the occasion by lighting diyas and distributing sweets at their camps.

The festivities at Lal Chowk and along the Line of Control highlighted the different ways Diwali was celebrated across Kashmir, bringing together residents, tourists and security personnel in the spirit of the festival of lights.