Jammu, 26 March 2026: In a significant reflection of cultural revival and return to normalcy in Jammu & Kashmir, Ram Navami was celebrated at the historic Raghunath Temple after a gap of nearly 36 years.
The temple, located along the banks of the Jhelum River in the Fateh Kadal area of downtown Srinagar, was illuminated on the eve of the festival. Devotees gathered in large numbers as temple bells resonated, Vedic chants filled the air, and havan rituals were performed, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
BJP Spokesperson and Convenor, International Affairs, Gaurav Gupta hailed the occasion as a historic milestone, stating that the revival of such celebrations clearly indicates that “Srinagar is firmly back on track towards peace, stability, and cultural resurgence.”
He credited the leadership of LG Manoj Sinha for ensuring a secure and conducive environment that has made it possible for people to celebrate their religious traditions freely and without fear.
Gupta stated that for decades, such religious events had come to a halt due to terrorism and instability in the region. “The resumption of Ram Navami celebrations at this historic temple after 36 years reflects a new era in Jammu & Kashmir, where cultural heritage is being restored and preserved,” he added.
Gaurav Gupta also acknowledged the pivotal role of the Central Government under the leadership of Narendra Modi, stating that the revival of such cultural and religious traditions in Kashmir is the result of sustained efforts, close monitoring, and a clear vision from the Centre.
Gupta emphasized that the Centre’s commitment towards preserving Kashmir’s rich civilizational legacy and promoting inclusive development has played a crucial role in bringing back festivals like Ram Navami to historic shrines, sending a strong message of unity, stability, and cultural renaissance.
Highlighting the historical importance of the temple, Gupta noted that the Raghunath Temple, constructed in 1835 by Maharaja Gulab Singh and completed in 1860 by Maharaja Ranbir Singh, once served as a major center of socio-religious activities for the Hindu community in Srinagar, housing a school and a large library within its premises.
He further recalled that during the turbulent period of the early 1990s, the temple suffered extensive damage and was eventually abandoned, symbolizing the disruption of Kashmir’s age-old traditions.
Gupta emphasized that the revival of Ram Navami celebrations is not merely a religious event but a strong message of restored confidence, improved security, and inclusive development in the Union Territory.
“This is about restoring Kashmir’s soul. Under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi and LG Manoj Sinha, Jammu & Kashmir is witnessing peace, growing tourism, investment, and now the revival of its rich cultural and spiritual identity,” he said.
He added that such developments strengthen the vision of “Naya Jammu & Kashmir”, where all communities can freely practice their faith and where heritage sites are being revived and celebrated.
The celebration of Ram Navami at the Raghunath Temple after more than three decades stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, renewal, and the return of normalcy in the Valley.