Srinagar, Nov 8: Diwali-the festival of lights was celebrated with traditional and religious fervor and gaiety across Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday.

From the busy markets of Lal Chowk to temples, the Valley lit up with thousands of diyas, turning the autumn night into a beautiful sight.
The iconic Ghanta Ghar in city centre Lal Chowk, stood transformed into a beacon of festivity.
The tourists, Kashmiri Pandits, Sikhs and local Muslims decorated the landmark with hundreds of earthen lamps.
Locals and tourists thronged the square, taking pictures and making videos while celebrating the festival of lights
All the major temples in Srinagar City and elsewhere in Jammu and Kashmir were illuminated to celebrate Diwali.
Bridges and buildings and other landmarks were also lit up with fluorescent lights to mark the festival of lights.
The Hindu devotees visited temples decorated with traditional earthen lamps to offer special prayers.
People had also decorated their homes, offered special prayers at temples and performed pujas at their residences to mark the occasion.
People burst fire crackers across Jammu and Kashmir to celebrate the festival.
Army and security personnel also celebrated Diwali with enthusiasm at their locations along the border with candle lights and diyas at various places.
Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha greeted the people on the eve of Deepawali.
In his message, Sinha said, "The festival of Deepawali celebrates the eternal victory of light over darkness, virtue over vice, and justice over injustice. On this joyous occasion, let us rededicate ourselves to bringing happiness and prosperity into the lives of all citizens, spreading the warmth of compassion and solidarity. Let us reach out to extend support and happiness to those in need”.
"May the festival bring happiness and prosperity to all and illuminate their lives with lights of hope and joy," he said.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and to all those celebrating Diwali across the country and abroad.
In his message, the Chief Minister said that Diwali, the festival of lights, symbolises the triumph of good over evil and the victory of truth and righteousness. He observed that the festival conveys the enduring message of hope, harmony and compassion, while reinforcing the values of unity and mutual respect that define India’s rich cultural diversity.
The Chief Minister expressed hope that the festival would bring happiness, peace and prosperity to every household.