For three long decades there was no nightlife in Kashmir as the shops, restaurants and other establishments used to close early due to the fear of Pakistan-sponsored terrorists and the separatists.
As a result of terrorists and Pakistani stooges who were active in the Valley being trapped and losing their ability to maintain a parallel system, Kashmir has seen a revival of nightlife over the past three years. The restoration of Kashmir’s original splendour was made possible by the repeal of Article 370 on 5 August, 2019. The bold move made by the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi fully integrated the region with the Union of India and put an end to the dominance of the anti-peace elements.
As of right now, the old city of Srinagar’s volatile regions are bustling with activity until late at night. In floodlit grounds, kids play football and cricket until the early hours of the morning. The threat and dread that the sunset used to bring are no longer present.
Security forces and the Jammu and Kashmir Police have rendered all terrorists bearing weapons and grenades invisible. Crossfires and grenade assaults are no longer occurring. There are neither shutdowns nor instances of stone-throwing.
Normalcy returning to Kashmir has led to a common man heaving a sigh of relief. He is performing his daily chores in a peaceful environment. The revival of nightlife has led to the business establishments remaining open till late hours which has enhanced the sales and profit margins of the business people.
The J-K Tourism Department during the past three years has worked hard to make sure that tourists don’t have to shut themselves in the hotels after 8 pm. The shikaras and the houseboats in Dal lake have been illuminated and many tourists are seen taking their dream ride in Dal Lake during the night hours. All the lights installed on the shikaras are solar power-based and eco-friendly.
The moving shikaras with their illuminated lights shine like jewels in the Dal Lake. The move has increased the working hours of shikara owners, which means more business for them.
Activities like heritage tours, craft exhibitions, night skiing, have added a new dimension to the nightlife in Kashmir. The Hotels, restaurants and street food joints which used to pull down the shutters at dusk remain open till midnight with people thronging these places in hordes.
