Kashmir Valley with a majority Muslim population saw several symbolic celebrations of Diwali initiated by local Muslims to foster bonds among different communities.
He made it a point to tell the world that this celebration was in solidarity with the labourers most of whom are either dalits or from scheduled tribes and they feel threatened while working here.
In another post he write:
Here it’s important to mention that except for rich & affluent Upper Caste Kashmiri Muslims like Syed/Peers or Kashmiri Muslim Brahmin converts, most other Kashmiri Muslims are very secular, moderate, sufi and inclusive Muslims.
Javed also said the celebration of Diwali was started in Budgam district to instill confidence among the labourers who are mostly Dalits and scheduled tribal people from outside J&K and who are living under the fear of terrorists.
In Budgam, locals – Hindus, and Sikhs joined the labours at the kiln in lighting the lamp, diwali poja, and bursting the crackers.
In Sithaharan village located in Khag Panchayat halqa of Budgam, local Muslims lit up candles at a fresh spring dedicated to Sita, wife of Lord Ram.
Village Sutharan also called Sitaharan is a Ramayana site, for locals believe Ram, Sita, and Laxman spent a part of their 14-year exile here.
Deputy Commissioner S F Hameed told Awaz-the voice that this site has historic and religious importance and great tourism potential.
He said the locals took initiative for celebrations.
While locals joined security forces in celebrating Diwali across Kashmir, they also celebrated the festival of lights at Bohri kadal, downtown Srinagar.
Courtesy : Awazthevoice
Note: This news piece was originally published in awazthevoice.in and used purely for non-profit/non-commercial purposes exclusively for Human Rights .
