Security personnel celebrate Holi in Srinagar

SRINAGAR - Security personnel celebrated ‘Holi’ on Monday in the militancy-infested areas of Srinagar by arming themselves with packets of coloured water instead of their usual guns.

The area was filled with religious fervour and gaiety as soldiers of the 117 battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Srinagar celebrated this festival with the locals.

The soldiers, smeared in colour, cut across religion and caste considerations as they danced together to the tunes of Holi songs played by a local band.

Kamal Kumar, CRPF personal said, “Everybody should see that we are all celebrating Holi together here. As a family we celebrate this festival. Soldiers from all parts of India and all religions and casters are celebrating it together. This spreads a message of peace and prosperity. It is a very good feeling.”

Such festivals also give a cushion to the tense life of the security personnel and provide an opportunity to unwind their nerves. These festivities also help them to build up good relations with the locals at a time when there is heightened tension in the area.

Nasir Ahmad, a local said, “Through gatherings and events like Holi, Diwali (Hindu festival of lights) etc. the common man of Kashmir or the Kashmiri local gets a platform to interact with the CRPF personnel and build close relations with them.”

“Both locals and the soldiers get to share their feeling and thoughts and this way a strong bond is created. So, these events are a good way to strengthen our relations with the security forces and understand them,” he added.

The ceremonial Puja (prayer) was also held on the occasion for peace and prosperity of the country. (ANI)