Republic Day celebrations across Kashmir marked by patriotic fervor and cultural extravaganza

SRINAGAR — The 76th Republic Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour across Kashmir, with numerous events held at the district, sub-division, tehsil, and block levels to commemorate the occasion.

Republic Day, marking the adoption of India’s constitution and the country’s transition to a republic on January 26, 1950, was celebrated with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, and cultural performances. This year’s Republic Day theme, ‘Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas’ (Golden India: Heritage and Progress), highlighted India’s rich cultural heritage while also emphasizing the nation’s development and modernization.

In Budgam, the main Republic Day function took place at the Sports Stadium, where Chairman of the District Development Council (DDC), Nazir Ahmad Khan, unfurled the National Flag and took the salute at a grand march-past. In his address, Khan paid tribute to India’s Constitution and freedom fighters, and praised the district’s progress, highlighting the active participation of the people in government initiatives. The ceremony featured contingents from JKP, JKAP, CRPF, Home Guard, and school children, along with vibrant cultural performances. Several officers and officials were also awarded for their outstanding contributions.

In Ganderbal, the celebrations at Qamaria Ground saw DDC Chairperson Nuzhat Ishfaq unfurl the National Flag and take the ceremonial salute. Ishfaq highlighted the district’s developmental milestones, especially the recently inaugurated Sonamarg tunnel, which promises year-round connectivity and boosts tourism. Cultural performances by students and local artists captivated the audience, while prizes were distributed to outstanding participants.

Pulwama’s Republic Day celebrations were held at District Police Lines, where DDC Chairperson Syed Abdul Bari Andrabi unfurled the National Flag and took the salute at the march-past. The event featured enthusiastic participation from local residents and performances by students and local artists. The DDC Chairperson praised the district’s development achievements and the contributions of various officers and officials. The ceremony also included a heartfelt tribute to the families of martyrs from the Police and Paramilitary forces.

In Kulgam, DDC Chairperson Mohammad Afzal Parrey presided over the main function at District Police Lines, where he unfurled the National Flag and took a salute at the march-past. Parrey focused on the district’s progress in sectors like education, healthcare, agriculture, and women empowerment. Cultural performances by local artists and students added to the festive atmosphere. Similar events were held at various levels across the district.

Shopian also celebrated Republic Day with vibrant cultural displays. DDC Chairperson Bilqees Jan unfurled the Tricolour at District Police Lines and inspected the parade. Her address emphasized the district’s developmental progress and the importance of unity. The event included various performances by students and local artists, with awards given to outstanding contributors in different fields.

In Bandipora, the Republic Day celebrations at S.K. Stadium saw DDC Chairman Abdul Gani Bhat unfurl the National Flag and inspect the parade. Bhat highlighted the district’s progress in infrastructure, education, and public welfare. The event featured cultural performances, including traditional folk music and dance. Award ceremonies honoured those who contributed to the district’s development.

Kupwara’s main Republic Day function took place at District Police Lines, where DDC Chairman Irfan Sultan Panditpori unfurled the National Flag and took a salute from the contingents. The Chairman highlighted the district’s tourism potential and the administration’s efforts to foster development in rural and remote areas. The ceremony also featured performances by school children and local artists, and awards were given to outstanding performers in the march-past, tableaux, and cultural programs.

Republic Day celebrations were held in sub-divisions, tehsils, and blocks throughout the Kashmir Valley, with events also taking place at government offices, schools, and panchayats. The day was marked by patriotic zeal and a collective spirit of unity, underscoring the region’s progress and commitment to national integration.