Ram Navami celebrated with religious gaiety in Kashmir

Srinagar, Apr 17: The Kashmiri Pandit community residing in the Valley commemorated Ram Navami, the auspicious birthday of Lord Ram, with traditional fervor and joy. Temples across the valley resonated with the sound of prayers as Hindus sought the blessings of Lord Ram and prayed for peace to prevail in the region.
On this significant occasion, Kashmiri Pandits embarked on the ShobaYatra in Srinagar, marking the culmination of the nine-day-long Navratri festival. The festival was observed with profound religious zeal, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the embodiment of honesty and righteousness in life.
Under stringent security measures, the Yatra commenced from the Kathleshwar temple in the Tankiporaneighborhood of Srinagar. Adorned in traditional attire, a group of children led the procession, which traversed through various parts of the city, including Habbakadal, Ganpathyar, Barbar Shah, Regal Chowk, LalChowk, Hari Singh High Street, and Jahangir Chowk. Accompanied by numerous Kashmiri Pandits, the Yatra proceeded peacefully, with special prayers held at significant temples along the route, including Ram Mandir at Barbar Shah, Durga Nag Mandir, KathleshwarMandir at Habbakadal, and Hanuman Mandir at Hari Singh High Street.
At the iconic Mata Bhaderkali temple in Handwara, devotees gathered to recite Bhajans and offer prayers for the progress and prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir. The atmosphere brimmed with devotion as they concluded their fast with the rituals of ‘KanyaPoojan’ and ‘Sakh Immersion.’ Muslim community members warmly greeted their Pandit brethren, exchanged sweets, and extended well-wishes through various means, including social media, personal messages, and home visits.