SRINAGAR: The Hindu Lord Krishna’s birthday, also known as ‘Janmashtami,’ was celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm in the region of Kashmir on Thursday.
Temples were decorated, and a procession called ‘Shoba Yatra’ took place as part of the traditional celebrations by local Pandit devotees.
Parents sent fruits like apples, pears, and grapes to their daughters’ homes on this festival.
In Srinagar city, temples were adorned with lights and buntings at Sheetal Nath in Habba Kadal area, Ganpatyar, Somyaar, Batyaar, and other places. Prayers were offered during the night, and Muslim neighbors greeted devotees warmly, continuing the tradition of brotherhood.
In north Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, Muslim neighbors, elders, and children joined the festivities with their Pandit friends in Nuner, Waskura, and other places, highlighting the region’s eclectic and tolerant culture nurtured by local Sufis and Saints over centuries.
Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, various politicians, and socio-religious leaders extended greetings to the local Hindus on the festival.
People’s Democratic Party president & former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti, extended her warm greetings to all those celebrating the joyous occasion of Krishna Janmashtami. In a message, she highlighted the significance of ‘Lord Krishna’s’ teachings of love, compassion, and righteousness, which continue to inspire millions.
In her message, Mufti also made a special mention of the Kashmiri Pandit community, who celebrate this occasion as “Zaram Satam” in Kashmir. She emphasised the importance of preserving the diverse cultural heritage of the region and fostering harmony among its communities.
“On this auspicious day, let us all remember Lord Krishna’s timeless wisdom and his call for unity and harmony. May this festival of Janmashtami bring joy and prosperity to every home, and may the spirit of togetherness strengthen the bonds of our society,” she remarked.
