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A Historic Celebration in Lal Chowk

Today marked a significant milestone as the iconic Ghanta Ghar area in Lal Chowk hosted its first-ever celebration of the 11th International Yoga Day, attracting thousands from various districts of Jammu and Kashmir. This event showcased the increasing embrace of yoga within this predominantly Muslim region, drawing both locals and tourists to the Valley.

As yoga practitioners gathered in Lal Chowk, the spirit of the celebration resonated throughout the valley, with activities organized in every district, primarily engaging students. The surge in participation indicates a growing trend towards healthier living in the area.

Joining the festivities, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh participated in the celebrations in Udhampur district, highlighting yoga's role in fostering peace and wellness.

Sunil Sharma, a BJP leader and Leader of Opposition in Jammu and Kashmir, stated, "Our aim is to promote peace. We are celebrating the 11th International Yoga Day under Prime Minister Modi's guidance. This location has a rich history tied to conflict, and we aspire for Lal Chowk to be recognized for its peaceful essence."

The BJP organized the event at Lal Chowk to enhance tourism and present Kashmir as a serene destination. Altaf Thakur, the BJP State Spokesperson, remarked, "The world is celebrating today, and now the people of Kashmir have embraced yoga too. We want to communicate that Kashmir is peaceful and extend an invitation for everyone to visit."

Student involvement was particularly remarkable during the celebrations, with many sharing their positive experiences regarding yoga's impact on their health. Fatima, a student participant, expressed, "I had a wonderful time at the International Yoga Day Celebration. I feel very relaxed after the yoga session. I encourage everyone to practice yoga; it offers numerous benefits and alleviates stress."

A group of tourists from Haryana also joined locals in performing yoga at Lal Chowk. Sunita, one of the tourists, described the experience as unforgettable, especially practicing yoga in such a historic setting as the Clock Tower.

The rising popularity of yoga in Jammu and Kashmir can be attributed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiative launched in 2014, which aimed to celebrate International Yoga Day and promote wellness and unity among communities.