Srinagar, August 15, 2025 – In a historic moment for Kashmir, thousands of people gathered at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar to celebrate India’s 79th Independence Day, marking a significant shift in the region’s participation in national festivities. The massive crowd, comprising men, women, children, and people of all ages, turned up voluntarily, driven by a renewed sense of patriotism and pride, free from coercion or incentives. This vibrant event, held under tight security, highlighted a peaceful and enthusiastic atmosphere, reflecting the changing dynamics in the Kashmir Valley.The celebrations at Bakshi Stadium, the venue for the main Independence Day function in Jammu and Kashmir, were a testament to the region’s growing engagement with national events. After a gap of two decades, the stadium saw an unprecedented turnout, with estimates suggesting around 10,000 attendees, the largest civilian gathering for an Independence Day event since 2003. Carrying the national flag, attendees filled the stands, with many clicking selfies to capture the festive spirit. The absence of restrictions, such as concertina wires or barricades, and uninterrupted mobile and internet services for the third consecutive year, further facilitated public participation.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah hoisted the Tricolour at Bakshi Stadium, addressing the gathering and emphasizing the significance of a democratically elected leader speaking at the event after more than six years. The event featured a ceremonial parade with contingents from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and school children, followed by vibrant cultural programs showcasing Kashmir’s rich heritage.
Eyewitnesses reported long queues forming as early as 8 a.m., with women, children, and the elderly eagerly waiting to enter the stadium. “We are attending for the first time due to significantly reduced security hassles. Witnessing the parade is a source of joy for us,” said a group of women, reflecting the sentiment of many attendees. The administration’s decision to allow free entry without special passes, requiring only valid identity proof, was widely appreciated, contributing to the massive turnout.
Security was meticulously planned, with multi-tier arrangements around Bakshi Stadium to ensure a peaceful celebration. Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, V K Birdi, who supervised the dress rehearsal, emphasized the foolproof security measures in place. Despite heavy rainfall, the enthusiasm remained undampened, with people from various walks of life, including tourists, participating in the festivities across Srinagar, including at the iconic Lal Chowk.
The event also coincided with initiatives like the ‘Swachhta Pakhwada’ cleanliness campaign and ‘Ek Ped Shaheedon Ke Naam’ plantation drives, honoring martyrs and promoting environmental consciousness. Tiranga Rallies under the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign further amplified the patriotic fervor across the region.
Residents like Shaista Bano from Ganderbal, who traveled to witness the parade, expressed their joy at the open access to the event. “I was longing for so many years to see the parade. When I heard anyone could enter the stadium, I decided to come this time,” she said. Social media posts echoed this sentiment, with users describing the voluntary participation as a historic moment, free from external pressures.
The celebrations extended beyond Srinagar, with district-level events across Kashmir, where District Development Council chairpersons hoisted the national flag and addressed participants. The collective participation underscored a growing sense of unity and solidarity, marking a departure from past years when Independence Day in Kashmir was often associated with restrictions and low public engagement.
This year’s Independence Day at Bakshi Stadium not only celebrated India’s freedom but also symbolized a new chapter of hope, peace, and voluntary participation in Kashmir, as men, women, and children came together to honor the nation with pride.
Keywords: Independence Day, Kashmir, Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar, crowd, men, women, children, all ages, voluntary, pride, patriotism, national flag, Omar Abdullah, security, cultural programs, peace, unity, Tricolour, celebration, Jammu and Kashmir.
