Kupwara, Nov 01: Diwali was celebrated with joy and unity at the newly reconstructed Sharda Yatra Temple near the Line of Control (LoC) in Teetwal, Kupwara, marking a historic occasion for the valley.
The celebration brought together a large number of Kashmiri Pandits, locals, and army personnel, who lit traditional oil lamps and candles at the temple, filling the night with a warm glow.
The Save Sharda Committee has been instrumental in the reconstruction efforts for the Sharda Temple, as well as a Sikh Gurudwara, both of which once stood on the same land before being destroyed during the 1947 tribal raids.
The temple area, previously marked by tensions and occasional ceasefire violations, has transformed into a place of peaceful worship. In recent years, these violations had often interrupted community gatherings, making celebrations like Diwali uncommon for the area.
However, the renewed peace has enabled a stronger sense of community, encouraging people from various backgrounds to come together and participate in such festive occasions.
This year’s Diwali celebrations, described as one of historic importance, signifies not only a return to peaceful cultural gatherings but also a milestone in the restoration of heritage sites at the LoC.
