Srinagar, October 21, 2025 – In a radiant display of cultural harmony and festive spirit, the historic Clock Tower at Lal Chowk, Srinagar’s bustling commercial heart, transformed into a beacon of light on the eve of Diwali. Hundreds of locals, tourists, and devotees gathered under a massive security blanket to light thousands of earthen diyas, burst firecrackers, and perform traditional aarti, symbolising the triumph of light over darkness. This year’s celebrations, infused with patriotic fervour through the “Operation Sindoor” theme, underscored the evolving narrative of “Naya Kashmir” – a region embracing inclusivity and normalcy.The event, which drew crowds from across Jammu and Kashmir and beyond, featured rows of glowing diyas arranged to form messages like “Jaya Bharat,” evoking national pride amid the festivities. A priest led the puja rituals as families and visitors, including many from Gujarat and Delhi, shared sweets and exchanged greetings.
“This is truly Naya Kashmir. We never imagined celebrating Diwali so grandly here – the energy rivals any festival in India,” shared Rashmi, a tourist from Rajkot, Gujarat, capturing the electric atmosphere.Organized with support from local authorities and community groups, the gathering highlighted Srinagar’s growing openness to Hindu festivals, a stark contrast to past decades marked by conflict and restrictions. Security forces ensured a seamless experience, with enhanced deployments around the area to facilitate peaceful revelry.
Artisans reported a surge in sales of locally crafted diyas and pottery, boosting small-scale economies in the Valley.Eyewitness accounts from the scene painted a vivid picture: the Clock Tower, a colonial-era landmark synonymous with Srinagar’s political history, stood tall amid bursts of colorful fireworks and the rhythmic chants of devotional songs. Videos circulating on social media showed children lighting lamps with glee, while elders recounted tales of Diwali’s significance – prosperity, victory, and communal bonds. One local artisan, Mohammad Umar Kumar, noted, “Seeing Hindus and Muslims together like this fills me with hope. Our diyas aren’t just lights; they’re bridges of unity.
“This Diwali comes on the heels of similar public celebrations in recent years, signaling a broader cultural renaissance in J&K. From the Chrysanthemum Show earlier this month at the same venue to interfaith events, Lal Chowk has emerged as a symbol of transformation. Tourists like Manish from Delhi echoed sentiments of gratitude: “The people of Kashmir welcomed us with open arms. It’s peaceful, vibrant, and full of warmth.”As the diyas flickered into the crisp Kashmiri night, the celebrations served as a poignant reminder of resilience and reconciliation. With Diwali 2025 now etched in Srinagar’s folklore, the Valley looks ahead to more such inclusive milestones, fostering tourism and social cohesion.