Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Feb 26: The world-famous Dal Lake came alive on Wednesday as the ongoing Srinagar Heritage Festival—‘Soan Meeras’ featured a vibrant Shikara rally, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The function held in and around Ghat No. 18 of Dal Lake, featured traditional performances and floating markets, drawing a large number of visitors and artists.
The festival aimed at preserving Kashmir’s heritage, witnessed artists performing on beautifully decorated Shikaras, creating a mesmerizing scene on the waters of Dal Lake.
Notably, the rally was organized to commemorate the ancient customs of the area, based on its cultural and artistic identity.
A local musician, who performed at the rally, expressed his joy and said that participating in this festival was an honor. “Such festivals provide us with a platform to project our art and preserve our culture,” he said.
Tourists and locals alike were equally surprised, and most stopped their cars along Dal Lake shores to witness the scenery. A local resident, Zubair Ahmad mentioned, “It is wonderful to witness such an event in Srinagar, particularly on Dal Lake. The combination of cultural shows and Dal Lake’s beauty makes it a special occasion.”
Importantly, Soan Meeras festival is a part of a greater effort to honor and protect Kashmir’s rich heritage. Over the years, the government and cultural organizations have made efforts to revive traditional art, crafts, and heritage tourism.
Speaking about the event, an official said the festival is an effort to revive and promote Kashmir’s heritage while also boosting tourism. “The Shikara rally is a tribute to our rich traditions,” he said.
