Ram Navami celebrations mark peaceful shift in Kashmir valley

Amidst a changing landscape in Kashmir Valley characterized by declining incidents of terrorism, bandhs, and stone-pelting, a sense of peace and celebration was evident as Kashmiri Pandits joyously took part in a Shoba Yatra on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami.

The festival was observed with religious fervor and gaiety, showcasing a shift towards harmonious festivities in the region.

The Shoba Yatra, featuring a group of children adorned in traditional attire, commenced from Kathleshwar Temple in Tankipora area and traversed through prominent areas including Habbakadal, Ganpathyar, Barbar Shah, Regal Chowk, Lal Chowk, Hari Singh High Street, and Jahangir Chowk amidst tight security arrangements. Chanting “Hare Rama Hare Rama” slogans, a significant number of Kashmiri Pandits participated in the yatra, which concluded peacefully under the watchful eye of deployed security forces.

Reflecting on the significance of the Shoba Yatra, a Kashmiri Pandit participant noted that the procession marked the culmination of the nine-day Ram Navami festival, during which special prayers were offered for the peace and prosperity of the country and Jammu and Kashmir. This peaceful celebration of Ram Navami signifies a positive transformation in Kashmir Valley, with communities coming together to observe important festivals in an atmosphere of tranquility and mutual respect. Security measures remained robust to ensure the safety of participants and maintain the peaceful conduct of the festivities.