Srinagar: The banks of Dal Lake in Srinagar came alive with a sea of Tricolours on Tuesday as thousands joined the Tiranga Rally led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, marking a spirited build-up to Independence Day.
Addressing the gathering, L-G Sinha said the national flag is a symbol of “unity, pride and shared identity” and paid homage to those who laid down their lives for its honour. “We must build a modern and prosperous Jammu & Kashmir on the foundation of their sacrifices. Tiranga is my Dharma, my strength, my heartbeat,” he declared.
Chief Minister Abdullah spoke of the flag’s power to unite and inspire, highlighting its role as a beacon of secularism and brotherhood. He recounted how one citizen’s legal fight enabled the right to hoist the flag at home, saying, “The gist is that one person can bring change. We must respect the national flag; it is our identity.”
The rally drew ministers, top officials, students, sportspersons, and people from all walks of life. Security arrangements ensured a welcoming atmosphere, while balloons carrying the Tricolour floated into the sky above Dal Lake.
The event concluded with a boat show, cultural performances, and a renewed pledge among participants to uphold national unity, cutting across regions, religions, and languages in the world’s largest democracy.
