Srinagar, Mar 26 (KNO): Ram Navami was celebrated with religious fervour across Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, with devotees taking out Shobha Yatras in Srinagar and several districts of the Valley.
According to the details available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) on the occasion, the historic Raghunath Temple was also reopened for prayers after nearly 36 years, marking a significant moment for the local Hindu community.
The reopening of the temple in the old city’s Haba Kadal area coincided with the festival, drawing devotees from different parts of the Valley for special prayers and rituals.
Eyewitnesses said Shobha Yatras in Srinagar as well as districts including Anantnag, Baramulla and Kupwara and others passed off peacefully through designated routes amid tight security arrangements.
Devotees were seen chanting bhajans and carrying religious flags.
“This is a historic and emotional moment. We never thought we would see prayers being held here again in our lifetime,” said a devotee, adding that the reopening has rekindled a sense of belonging among the community.
The temple, dedicated to Lord Ram, is a centuries-old heritage structure believed to have been built in the 19th century by Dogra ruler Maharaja Gulab Singh and later completed by Maharaja Ranbir Singh.
It had fallen into disuse and disrepair in the early 1990s, remaining shut for decades before restoration efforts were taken up by authorities.
Officials associated with the renovation said the structure has been carefully restored to preserve its original architecture while making it functional again for worshippers.
Another devotee, Neelam Raina, said the reopening goes beyond religion. “It is about reconnecting with our roots and history. Today’s celebration feels like a new beginning,” she said.
Reports from other districts said similar religious gatherings and prayers were held in several parts of south and north and central Kashmir, with authorities ensuring smooth arrangements.
Local residents, including members of other communities, also joined in facilitating the smooth conduct of the event. A shopkeeper in the area said such occasions reflect Kashmir’s age-old tradition of coexistence. “People here respect each other’s faiths. This is part of our shared culture,” he said.
Officials had made elaborate security and logistical arrangements to ensure the peaceful conduct of both the procession and the reopening ceremony—(KNO)