Srinagar recently marked the festival of Vijayadashami with immense joy, cultural fervour and slogans of Jai Shri Ram echoing across the valley. The highlight of the celebrations was the Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium, where a towering 35-foot effigy of Ravana was set ablaze. Alongside Ravana, 30-foot tall effigies of Kumbhakarna and Meghnada were also burnt to mark the victory of good over evil.
Organised by Kashmiri Pandit Sangharsh Samiti
The entire celebration was spearheaded by the Kashmiri Pandit Sangharsh Samiti, with active support from the CRPF and the district administration. Members of the Samiti expressed their gratitude to the administration, police, and their fellow Muslim and Sikh brethren who stand by them every year to reinforce the spirit of brotherhood and communal harmony in the region.
Tight Security and Massive Public Turnout
Authorities had put robust security arrangements in place to ensure the event proceeded smoothly and safely. Despite being a minority in the region, the Kashmiri Pandit community continues to observe their cultural traditions with utmost devotion. People from diverse communities, along with a large number of tourists and security personnel, gathered in huge numbers at the venue to witness the spectacle.
Youth Engagement and CRPF Celebrations
The younger generation participated with notable enthusiasm, with many Kashmiri youth recording the proceedings on their mobile phones and creating reels for social media platforms. Meanwhile, CRPF personnel stationed far away from their families on security duty also joined in the effigy burning, celebrating the triumph of righteousness.
Dazzling Fireworks Light Up the Sky
The festivities concluded with a spectacular fireworks display that illuminated the Srinagar night sky, adding to the festive cheer. The event successfully brought together locals, security forces, and visitors in a shared celebration of faith, culture, and unity.
