SRINAGAR: Marking the auspicious celebration of Ram Navami, the Kashmiri Pandit community in Srinagar held a vibrant spiritual parade on Sunday, radiating collective devotion and cultural pride. The grand procession, rich in tradition and energy, brought together members of the Hindu community in significant numbers, as they filled the streets with sacred hymns and devotional chants honoring their deities.
Participants, dressed in eye-catching attire, moved in a colorful procession that began at the sacred Sri Kathleshwar Temple (ISKCON) and passed through key areas including Habba Kadal, Barbar Shah, Ram Mandir, Regal Chowk, and Hari Singh High Street. Along the way, voices in praise of divinity echoed through the city, as worshippers of all ages immersed themselves in religious activities.
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Temples across the city came alive with the sound of bhajans sung in the Kashmiri language, adding a distinct local flavor to the pan-Indian celebration. The event stood out not only for its grandeur but for its inclusive spirit, as members of other communities, including local Muslims, showed warm solidarity. Many were seen offering water and assistance to the devotees, a gesture that was deeply appreciated by the participants.
A participant shared, “This spiritual journey takes place every year with heartfelt reverence. The support from our Muslim neighbors is always touching—they wait along the route and help with refreshments. It reflects the true soul of Kashmir, where faith and friendship go hand in hand.”
Law enforcement agencies, including the Jammu and Kashmir Police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), ensured that the event remained secure and peaceful. Senior officials were present on-site, carefully monitoring the arrangements to allow the procession to unfold without disruption.
The celebration honors the birth of Lord Ram and is commemorated across India with great zeal. In Srinagar, the event not only celebrated faith but also highlighted unity amidst diversity.
Jagdish Bhardwaj from the J&K Dharmarth Trust, one of the event’s coordinators, expressed satisfaction over the proceedings. “The celebration went on smoothly, thanks to the efficient arrangements made by the administration. This is a significant moment in our religious calendar, and seeing people come together with such spirit fills my heart. Today, we offered prayers for harmony, fraternity, and lasting peace in Kashmir,” he said.
The Shobha Yatra in Srinagar became more than just a festival—it was a heartfelt tribute to the enduring spirit of togetherness and mutual respect in the Valley.
