After five years, refurbished Bakshi Stadium in Jammu and Kashmir to host Independence Day celebration, encouraging public participation with no entry restrictions. Stadium’s revival marks completion of upgrades, while a dress rehearsal showcased unity through parades and cultural performances. Heightened security ensures a safe event, emphasizing the region’s resilience and diversity.
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A Historic Return to Bakshi Stadium
After a hiatus of five years, the refurbished Bakshi Stadium is set to regain its position as the venue for the main Independence Day celebration in Jammu and Kashmir. The civil administration’s appeal for increased public participation has paved the way for this significant event. Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir, V K Bhiduri, expressed his enthusiasm, highlighting the ample arrangements made for the occasion. Unlike previous years, no passes or restrictions will be imposed on entry to the stadium, encouraging a wider attendance.
A Stadium’s Transformation and its Role
For decades, Bakshi Stadium stood as the emblematic host of Jammu and Kashmir’s primary Independence Day function. However, in 2018, the stadium had to undergo a closure to facilitate much-needed upgrades and renovations. Consequently, the Independence Day parades of the past five years were conducted at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Sonawar. This temporary shift marked the importance of maintaining the tradition of celebration while the Bakshi Stadium underwent revitalization.
Bakshi Stadium, a historic venue for the celebration, had been closed in 2018 for upgrades, leading to the relocation of Independence Day parades to the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Sonawar. The change in chief guest from the chief minister to the appointed Lieutenant Governor underlines the region’s shifting political dynamics.
A full dress rehearsal at Bakshi Stadium showcased the region’s unity and diversity, featuring parades with police, security forces, and school children, followed by a cultural program. Security has been heightened around the stadium, ensuring a safe environment for the upcoming event.
The absence of an elected government led to a change in the chief guest for the event. Formerly presided over by the chief minister, the responsibility now rests with the Lieutenant Governor, appointed by the Central Government after the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019. This transition reinforces the evolving political landscape of the region and its impact on the way significant public events are orchestrated.
Splendid Display and Enhanced Security
A spectacular full dress rehearsal at Bakshi Stadium showcased the readiness for the forthcoming Independence Day celebration. Divisional Commissioner Bhiduri took the salute during the march past, featuring contingents from the police, security forces, and school children. The parade was a vibrant display of unity and patriotism, reflecting the diverse cultural fabric of Jammu and Kashmir. Following the parade, an engaging cultural program unfolded, featuring artists and schoolchildren, who highlighted the rich diversity of the region.
In preparation for the grand event, security around the stadium has been intensified, with a notable deployment of security personnel. The roads surrounding Bakshi Stadium were cordoned off during the dress rehearsal, underlining the significance of ensuring a safe and secure environment for the upcoming Independence Day celebration.
Conclusion:
The revival of Bakshi Stadium as the venue for the main Independence Day function in Jammu and Kashmir after a substantial hiatus marks a historic moment for the region. The concerted efforts of the civil administration to encourage public participation and the completion of the stadium’s renovations have culminated in this momentous occasion. The transition of leadership for this event from the chief minister to the Lieutenant Governor further highlights the evolving political landscape.
The full dress rehearsal showcased the collective spirit and unity of the region, reflected through a splendid parade and captivating cultural performances. With heightened security measures in place, Bakshi Stadium is poised to host a memorable Independence Day celebration, symbolizing the resilience and vibrant diversity of Jammu and Kashmir
