Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a grand display of patriotism, national unity and public participation ahead of the 80th Independence Day celebrations as Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha kicked off a massive Tiranga Rally in Srinagar on Wednesday. Thousands of citizens, including youth, students, government employees, public representatives and members of civil society, participated in the rally carrying the National Flag with pride.
The Tiranga Yatra was organised under the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign and marked one of the biggest public mobilisation events in the Union Territory ahead of August 15. The rally started from the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) and proceeded towards the Botanical Garden, with participants marching through the Srinagar boulevard while holding the Tricolour high.
The large-scale event transformed the streets of Srinagar into a sea of saffron, white and green as citizens joined together to celebrate India's Independence Day spirit. The rally reflected the growing participation of people from different communities and age groups in national celebrations across Jammu and Kashmir.
The iconic Dal Lake added a unique visual dimension to the celebrations as the Tricolour fluttered against the backdrop of Kashmir's scenic landscape. The sight of thousands of participants carrying flags along the route created a memorable atmosphere, blending the region's natural beauty with the spirit of Independence Day celebrations.
The rally highlighted the importance of public involvement in national events and showcased the participation of ordinary citizens, particularly young people, who joined the movement with enthusiasm. The Har Ghar Tiranga campaign has emerged as a major public outreach initiative connected with Independence Day celebrations. The programme encourages citizens to bring the National Flag home, hoist it with respect and develop a personal emotional connection with the symbol of India's sovereignty and democratic values.
Addressing citizens during the event, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha encouraged residents of Jammu and Kashmir to actively participate in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign and upcoming Independence Day programmes. He highlighted that the campaign represents collective commitment towards nation-building and strengthens the bond between citizens and the Tricolour. He also expressed gratitude to people across the Union Territory for making the Tiranga Yatra a major success.
The Lieutenant Governor called upon citizens to participate in various programmes, including Tiranga rallies, Tiranga concerts, Tiranga Canvas activities, Tiranga Pledge programmes, Tiranga Selfies and Tiranga Mela events. He urged people to bring the National Flag to their homes and display it with dignity, respect and pride as part of the Independence Day celebrations.
Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary highlighted the long-standing connection between the people of the Union Territory and the National Flag. He stated that the respect and attachment towards the Tricolour have existed since Independence and should not be viewed only through the developments following the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019.
He pointed out that people from Jammu, Kashmir Valley and border regions have made significant sacrifices for the country's security and unity. According to him, the contribution of citizens and security personnel has remained an important part of India's journey since 1947.
Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson Darakhshan Andrabi described the Tiranga Rally as a reflection of changing social participation in the Valley. She highlighted the presence of children, elderly citizens and youth during the event, stating that the increasing visibility of the National Flag in public spaces represents greater involvement of people in national celebrations.
She said the participation of citizens in such programmes reflects a broader shift towards public engagement, confidence-building and community participation in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2022 under the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav initiative, has become a nationwide movement encouraging citizens to hoist the National Flag at their homes during Independence Day celebrations. The campaign aims to honour the sacrifices of freedom fighters, strengthen patriotic feelings and create a personal connection between citizens and the Tricolour.
The 2026 edition of the campaign will include several programmes across districts, blocks and panchayats, including Tiranga rallies, cultural exhibitions, concerts, bike and cycle rallies, illumination of important landmarks, decorative programmes and Rangoli events.
A special theme, Tiranga Salute to the Spirit of Vande Mataram, will also be observed as India commemorates 150 years of the iconic patriotic composition. The popular Selfie with Tiranga initiative will continue to encourage citizens to participate digitally and share their Independence Day celebrations on social media platforms.
During the Srinagar event, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha released a special monograph dedicated to the martyrs and bravehearts of Jammu and Kashmir. He also launched the Tiranga Signature Campaign aimed at increasing public participation and creating awareness about Independence Day activities.
The initiative focuses on remembering the sacrifices of national heroes while encouraging citizens to become active participants in celebrations connected with India's independence.
The Tiranga Rally comes ahead of the main Independence Day ceremony in Srinagar, where the National Flag will be unfurled as part of the official Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory-level celebrations. Across Jammu and Kashmir, preparations are underway with cultural programmes, public rallies and awareness campaigns being organised to mark the historic occasion.
The Srinagar Tiranga Yatra has emerged as one of the major highlights of the Independence Day preparations, showcasing a massive public gathering and reinforcing the message of unity, patriotism and national integration ahead of August 15.
