After a few years of stability, J&K has not only witnessed visible changes with the opening of business establishments, educational institutions, and overall public life throughout the year, but is also seeing an unimaginable surge in the celebration of festivals like Eid.
If we look back at the periods of turmoil in 2008, 2016, and 2018, street protests, the glorification of funeral processions, and frequent encounters had turned Kashmir into a state of mourning and agony. This deeply impacted people mentally, physically, and emotionally. Eid did not feel like a day of happiness; instead, it further affected the mental well-being of people, especially children and teenagers.
In the days leading up to Eid, particularly on Arfah, people traditionally visited markets to shop for new clothes, bakery items, meat, and other essentials. However, markets were often closed, and incidents like stone pelting led to repeated shutdowns. Celebrating Eid almost felt like a sin during those times.
Now, after years of normalcy and a shift in the atmosphere on the streets, Kashmir is witnessing a visible transformation—not only in terms of development and the absence of strike calls, but also in the growing culture of celebration among the masses. Who influences the streets truly shapes peace and prosperity.
Kashmir is currently in a healing phase. A generation that was once romanticised by the culture of violence is now emerging as influencers—using social media to showcase their talent and build their own identities.
Young, talented, and artistic women skilled in mehendi design are now becoming job creators, and Eid without customised mehendi feels incomplete. At the same time, young men are competing through their clothing brands, food outlets, and bakeries—using every bit of their creativity to make their ventures trend in society.
Kashmir is now witnessing a completely different aura and ambience during Eid celebrations. Notably, J&K Bank recorded ₹8,394 crore in digital transactions during the two days before Eid, reflecting the scale of economic activity and public participation.
The streets of Kashmir, once filled with the smoke of burning tyres, tear gas shells, and stones, are now adorned with new outlets, celebrations, and a sense of peace. The “Pir Vaer” — the Land of Saints — once again feels serene and harmonious.
Article by
Bhat Musaddiq Reyaz
Viksit bharat young leader
can be mailed at bhatmusaddiq99@gmail.com
