Grand Diwali celebration held at Srinagar's Lal Chowk

For the first time, a grand Diwali celebration was held near the historic clock tower at Lal Chowk in Srinagar on Thursday as hundreds of locals and tourists lit diyas to mark the festival of lights.The city centre, which booms with tourists during the day, came alive in the evening, with the whole market illuminated as Diwali was celebrated with gaiety and festive fervour. Officials said such a grand Diwali celebration was held at the city centre for the first time.

#WATCH | J&K: #DiwaliCelebration underway at Lal Chowk in Srinagar. Organised by Paschimamnaya Sharada Peetham, the celebration is witnessing the participation of both locals and tourists. pic.twitter.com/5jxfDYA5L9

— ANI (@ANI) October 31, 2024

As per local media report, this year’s Diwali also witnessed a surge in demand for locally crafted diyas and pottery. Artisans like Mohammad Umar Kumar of Srinagar said he made impressive sales. “It is inspiring to see people coming together through such traditions,” he said, adding that he sold over 2,500 diyas before the festival.Potters in areas like Ganderbal said that the heightened interest in traditional pottery during Diwali is revitalising their craft.They said the festival not only lights up homes but also breathes new life into age-old traditions.A huge security ring was thrown around the area to ensure smooth celebrations.
“This is really Naya Kashmir. We had never thought that we could celebrate Diwali in such a grand manner here. The atmosphere is electric. It is much better than what we see in Gujarat. I want to tell everyone that there is no threat here, everything is peaceful and locals are supportive,” another tourist from Gujarat said.