Srinagar Jan 26: Jammu and Kashmir on Monday celebrated the 77th Republic Day of India with extraordinary zeal, patriotism, and communal harmony, turning the occasion into a grand festival of national pride and cultural unity.

From the snowy valleys of Kashmir to the historic streets of Jammu, the entire Union Territory was painted in the vibrant hues of the tricolour as people from all walks of life came together to honour the Constitution and reaffirm their commitment to India’s democratic principles.
The main celebratory event in Jammu and Kashmir was held at MAM Stadium Jammu, where Lt Governor Manoj Sinha unfurled the tricolour while in Valley, Deputy Chief Minister Sunder Kumar Choudhar unfurled tricolour at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, a venue that has become a symbol of unity and patriotic celebration in recent years.
Amid dazzling displays of discipline, colour, culture and spirit, that thousands gathered including citizens and participants to honour our Constitution, commemorate the Republic of India and celebrate our shared identity as Indians
The contingents from the police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), National Cadet Corps (NCC) and other security agencies marched in smart formation, presenting arms and keeping perfect steps. Students from schools across the city joined the march past, carrying small national flags and matching the rhythm of the bands.
Cultural programmes followed the formal ceremonies. Artists and school groups presented a variety of folk and patriotic performances on the stadium ground. Traditional Kashmiri songs and dances were performed and modern patriotic songs were sung by students. The mix of performances brought together classical and folk culture, showing the rich diversity of Jammu and Kashmir. Many people in the crowd waved the tricolour and cheered for singers and dancers alike.
The organisers said the cultural shows were included to connect younger people to national values and to celebrate the region’s traditions.
A three-tier security layer was thrown around the stadium as all entry points leading to the venue were heavily guarded by police and paramilitary personnel, officials said.
An additional security force was deployed in and around a one-kilometre radius of the stadium, with only persons invited for the function allowed to enter inside the premises.
Tight security arrangements were made for Republic Day this year. However, mobile phone and internet services remained functional even inside the venue of the function.
Former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti and several ruling National Conference MLAs from Srinagar attended the Republic Day function at Bakshi Stadium.