If you look at the ethnicity of Srinagar, the Brahmins, also known as Kashmiri Pandits were among the earliest inhabitants, followed by Muslims. The present-day Srinagar has become a cosmopolitan city homing folks from Rajasthan and other North-Indian states. Despite the diversity in religion, the locals live a harmonious life in Srinagar. People respect and celebrate the religious festivals with a charm. Here is a list of some distinct native festivals of Srinagar.
Navroz Festival
It is a festival of Shia Muslim community. The festival is celebrated for 9 days, usually in the month of March or April. During this festival, people gather in mosques, offer prayers, and embrace each other.
Navroz literally means a new day and this festival marks the beginning of Persian new year.
Urs Festival
Urs festival is meant to commemorate the death anniversary of the Muslim saints. The festival is held at the respective Saint’s tomb and on this day, meat is forbidden.
Ganga Ashtami
It is a festival of the Hindu community residing in Srinagar. On this day, Shraddha (special prayer for the departed) is performed in the memory of the departed ancestors.
Nureh Mavazi
It is a regional festival fair in the Northern parts of Srinagar. On the 15th day of the dark fortnight of Chaitra Month, a fair held at Vichar Nag town of Srinagar.
Kheer Bhawani Festival
The Brahmins of Srinagar have a special faith in Goddess Kheer Bhawani, also known as Raganya Devi. The deity is an avatar of Goddess Durga and has been blessing the town for untold years. Kheer Bhawani festival is held during Navratri (9 days of a year dedicated to Goddess Durga) at Kheer Bhawani Temple in the Tulla-Mulla town of Srinagar.
Although Srinagar has faced terrorist attacks in the past, still the culture here is alive. And so is the faith in the shrines, in whose praise these festivals are celebrated.
You can also rent a car in Srinagar for your itinerary and enjoy a comfortable trip.
Useful links-
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