In a display of vibrant celebrations, a large gathering flocked to Srinagar’s renowned Lal Chowk on Sunday night to ring in the New Year. While the event contributed to the government’s positive narrative, it ignited discussions about its authenticity and relevance in post-2019 Kashmir.
The government’s tourism department orchestrated festivities at key tourist spots, including Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam on Sunday night. Hundreds, encompassing locals and tourists, participated in the revelry at the city square, harmonizing to Bollywood melodies. The venue dazzled with a festive ambiance.
Srinagar Municipal Commissioner (SMC) Athar Aamir Ali termed it an unprecedented event in Kashmir, expressing pride in the transformation attributed to the #SrinagarSmartCity initiatives.
Rajendra Tiwari, Director of the Rajya Sabha secretariat, who attended the event, praised the enthusiasm of people, acknowledging changes post the abrogation of Article 370. However, some raised questions about the event’s authenticity and appropriateness for Kashmir’s altered status as a Union Territory.
Despite varying opinions, the celebration marked a departure from the usual melancholic backdrop in the region, offering a glimpse of optimism for the year ahead.
