Srinagar: A Shikara Rally was held in the Dal Lake here as part of the countrywide ‘Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav’ celebrations, a government initiative to mark 75 years of Independence.
As many as 100 Shikaras were part of the grand rally which was flagged off by Baseer Ahmad Khan, the Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, from SKICC lawns on the banks of Dal Lake, and it culminated at Nehru Park, an official spokesperson said.
He said Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Pandurang K Pole; Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Dr Shahid Iqbal Choudhary; VC Lakes & Waterways Authority, Director Tourism Kashmir, Director Rural Development Kashmir, Director Education Kashmir, Commissioner SMC and other senior officers were present on the occasion.
SMC Mayor Junaid Azim Mattu, District Development Council chairpersons, DDC members and a large number of people also took part in the rally, the spokesperson said.
Later, a cultural event was organised at the Nehru Park during which a variety of cultural programmes were presented to mark the first leg of the nationwide event ‘India@75’ for celebrating 75 years of Independence of India.
The district administration Baramulla also celebrated “Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav” with Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, Baseer Khan as the chief guest.
A grand function was organised at Indoor Sports Stadium in Baramulla in which people from all walks of life participated, an official press release informed.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir P K Pole, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla Bhupinder Kumar, DIG North Kashmir Suleman Choudhary, SSP Abdul Quyoom, heads of various departments, other senior officers, PRIs among others were also present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, Advisor Baseer Khan said that Baramulla was chosen for the event owing to its historical significance. He said that this district has given birth to several personalities “whose contributions in defending and upholding the sovereignty and integrity of our nation can’t be overlooked.”
Highlighting the objective of organising the event, Khan said that the main purpose of the event is to familiarize the young generation about the ideals of freedom and heroes and instill a sense of patriotism among them. He added that it should be the resolve and commitment of everyone to contribute towards nation building adding that such events enthuse will towards the cause.
The Advisor also enlisted various achievements recorded post-Independence and exhorted upon different stakeholders to play their part in socio-economic development of the society.
Divisional Commissioner, in his address extended greetings to the audience and said that the day marks the launch of Civil Disobedience Movement by Mahatma Gandhi which played a great role in freedom struggle. He highlighted some aspects of Indian freedom struggle and said that the strength of the nation is enshrined in unity in diversity.
At the outset, Deputy Commissioner presented the valedictory address wherein he presented a brief account of the event. He added that a series of commemorative events having historical and cultural significance shall be organised during the period from today to 15 August, 2022 when India will be celebrating 75 years of independence.
Meanwhile, colourful cultural items were presented by the school children which evoked applause from the audience. Through these cultural programmes, rich and glowing tribute was paid to all those heroes who laid their supreme sacrifice for the noble cause.
Earlier, Advisor Baseer Khan and other dignitaries inspected the exhibitions where several photos depicting historical events were displayed. A special photo exhibition was put up by the Department of Information and Public Relations Baramulla highlighting the developmental journey of the district.
“Certificates of honour posthumously were presented to historical personalities like Mohammad Maqbool Sheerwani and Mohammad Din Jagal, which were received by their nearer ones. These personalities were honoured for their bravery and valour which they showed in 1947 against the invaders,” the press release said.
