Deepawali in J&K: Lal Chowk in Srinagar, once a dreaded place lights up with diyas, Hanuman Chalisa also played

Srinagar: A festive atmosphere gripped Srinagar as a large number of people gathered at the iconic Ghanta Ghar at Lal Chowk to celebrate Diwali on November 8. The landmark was beautifully illuminated and decorated with vibrant lights, adding to the festive spirit and creating a spectacular visual display. People turned up in large numbers to join the celebrations, spreading joy and enthusiasm on the occasion. #WATCH | J&K: A large number of people gather at Ghanta Ghar at Lal Chowk in Srinagar which is beautifully illuminated and decorated, to join in #Diwali celebrations here. pic.twitter.com/qhXBWejiwO — ANI (@ANI) November 8, 2026 Diyas were also lit in the region, adding much to the festive grandeur and celebrations. One of the visitors from Gujarat spoke to ANI and shared, “I’m very happy that we are celebrating Deepawali here at Lal Chowk. This is my first Deepawali that I am celebrating here in Srinagar. The way people are working here for national interest, it feels good to celebrate Deepawali in Lal Chowk.” Read More: Major Somnath Sharma: First Param Vir Chakra awardee, hero who stood tall amid mortar fire in Battle of Budgam Another one from New Delhi further added, “It is a peaceful atmosphere. We have come to Kashmir for the first time, and there is a very happy atmosphere. Kashmir has changed a lot. I am very happy that so much is happening for the people of Kashmir.” Deepawali festivities were witnessed across the valley, with people enthusiastically taking part. Hanuman chalisa was playing in Lal chowk Srinagar. Hanuman chalisa playing in lal chowk Srinagar. Could only have been possible under the current bjp regime and leadership of Modi and Shah. Kudos to them. https://t.co/rJ8QhNyeux — Quinn (@FastrQuinn) November 8, 2026 Far from their families yet bound by an unwavering love for the motherland, Indian Army personnel stationed along the Line of Control in Kashmir celebrated Deepawali on Sunday by lighting lamps, performing a sacred puja, and whispering heartfelt prayers into the mountain winds for the peace, prosperity, and safety of the nation they protect. While people across the country celebrated Deepawali with their families and loved ones, Indian Army jawans deployed along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir celebrated the festival of lights away from their homes, carrying out the celebrations within their units. Far from their families, standing guard so others can celebrate with theirs Indian Army jawans deployed along the LoC in Kashmir and Rajasthan marked Diwali together within their units Our gratitude to every soldier on duty and to families missing them at home. Happy Diwali to… pic.twitter.com/XtMnqnAbsf — Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) November 8, 2026 The celebrations reflected the spirit of Deepawali as the jawans came together to mark the occasion while continuing their duties along the border. (ANI)