The ancient Martand Sun Temple in Mattan, Anantnag, once again became a symbol of unity and cultural coexistence as Kashmiri Pandits celebrated Diwali with full devotion and traditional fervour. This year, the festival took on added meaning as local Muslim residents joined the celebrations, reviving a centuries-old tradition of brotherhood that has long defined the social fabric of the Valley. The historic temple complex, believed to have been built in the 8th century by King Lalitaditya Muktapida, glowed under the light of countless diyas, illuminating both the shrine and the hearts of those gathered. Families, elders, and children from nearby areas came together to light lamps, offer prayers, and exchange greetings. The air was filled with chants, laughter, and the shared joy of the festival that has transcended generations. The Martand Sun Temple, also known as Surya Mandir, stands as one of the most revered archaeological and spiritual landmarks in Jammu and Kashmir. Despite being in ruins due to centuries of historical upheavals, the temple remains a sacred pilgrimage site for Kashmiri Pandits. On the night of Diwali, its ancient stones gleamed once again, resonating with the rhythmic chants of Lakshmi Puja and the soft glow of oil lamps that dotted every corner of the site. For the Pandit community, celebrating Diwali at this temple carries deep emotional and cultural significance. According to members of the Martand Tirath Trust, the temple is believed to mark the birthplace of the Sun, which gives it a unique importance during Diwali — the festival of light. The rituals performed here are meant to invoke prosperity and dispel darkness, both spiritual and worldly. What made the celebration stand out this year was the active participation of local Muslims, who joined their Pandit neighbours in decorating the temple premises and lighting diyas. Many came bearing sweets and warm wishes, a gesture that underscored the message of togetherness that Diwali embodies. This spontaneous participation by the Muslim community has, over time, evolved into an annual tradition, symbolizing harmony that transcends religious divides. Residents of Mattan and nearby Anantnag town described the celebration as a reaffirmation of the valley’s composite culture — one where festivals are not confined to any single faith but shared by all. For many older residents, the sight of the two communities celebrating side by side revived nostalgic memories of pre-1990s Kashmir, when social gatherings and religious festivities were joint affairs marked by mutual respect and shared identity. A local shopkeeper from Anantnag remarked that “Diwali at Martand Temple is not just about the lamps and rituals; it is about lighting the spirit of unity. We have grown up seeing our Pandit brothers celebrate here, and joining them feels natural — it keeps our bonds alive.”
The main Lakshmi Puja was performed on Amavasya Tithi, with priests reciting Vedic hymns and offering prayers for peace and prosperity. Traditional diyas were placed around the temple, while devotees offered flowers, sweets, and incense to the deity. The rituals continued late into the evening, followed by community gatherings where stories of the temple’s history and its spiritual importance were shared with the younger generation. Children, both Pandit and Muslim, were seen playing together in the temple courtyard, their laughter echoing through the centuries-old stone walls. Elderly participants described it as a living example of Kashmir’s enduring pluralism, something that continues to survive despite years of social and political challenges. For the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community, many of whom were forced to leave their homes during the early 1990s, the celebration at Martand Temple carries a deep sense of nostalgia. For them, returning to the temple — even temporarily — is not just a religious act but an emotional journey back to their roots. The festival serves as a reminder of their ancestral connections to the land and of their hope for a time when communities will once again live side by side in peace. Several Pandits who travelled from Jammu and Delhi to attend the ceremony described it as a moment of renewal and remembrance. “Every diya we light here carries a message — that darkness cannot erase our heritage. We come here not only to pray but to keep the spirit of Kashmiriyat alive,” said one devotee. The Martand Tirath Trust expressed gratitude for the local administration’s assistance in facilitating the event and ensuring safety measures for pilgrims. Volunteers from both communities managed the crowd, arranged food stalls, and coordinated transportation for devotees coming from distant areas.
Observers noted that such joint celebrations have become more frequent in the Valley over recent years, signalling a gradual return to inter-community engagement. Religious scholars and social activists from Anantnag emphasised that these gestures — however symbolic — are essential steps toward restoring trust and harmony between different communities. For many participants, the temple celebration wasn’t just a cultural event but a reaffirmation of Kashmir’s plural identity, historically known for its blend of Shaivism, Sufism, and humanist traditions. In a time when sectarian narratives often dominate public discourse, the scene at Martand offered a glimpse of a different reality — one where the light of Diwali united rather than divided. A group of young volunteers from Mattan spoke about how they see the festival as a bridge between generations. “Our elders tell us how they used to celebrate each other’s festivals. Now, we are carrying that forward,” one of them said. “It’s about keeping the flame of Kashmiriyat burning.” The Martand Sun Temple, dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, is one of the most magnificent remnants of ancient Kashmir’s architectural brilliance. Its design, which combines elements of Gandhara, Gupta, and Kashmiri architecture, reflects a period when the region was a thriving centre of art, learning, and spirituality. Though time and history have taken their toll, the temple still stands proudly atop a plateau overlooking the valley — a reminder of Kashmir’s glorious past. During Diwali, the temple becomes a focal point of cultural revival, attracting devotees, historians, and visitors who come not just for worship but also to witness the living history of the site. For many Pandits, performing rituals here connects them to their ancestors and reinforces their commitment to preserving their heritage. The illumination of the temple is seen as symbolic of the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. Amid the cold autumn air, the warm flicker of lamps created a serene yet powerful sight — a visual manifestation of resilience and faith. The joint celebration was widely appreciated across social and community circles, with many expressing hope that such initiatives will continue to strengthen ties among Kashmir’s diverse communities. Cultural groups from Anantnag and nearby districts have already expressed plans to organize interfaith events during upcoming festivals to further encourage dialogue and cooperation A local imam who attended the celebration said that festivals like Diwali remind people of their shared humanity. “Faith may differ, but the message of light, peace, and compassion is universal. Standing together in this temple shows that the essence of Kashmiriyat is still alive,” he said.
The Diwali celebrations at the Martand Sun Temple this year were more than just a festival of lights; they were a quiet yet powerful reaffirmation of Kashmir’s enduring pluralism. As diyas glowed across the ancient stones, they lit not only the temple but also the collective hope of two communities striving to preserve their shared heritage. In the tranquil town of Mattan, the spirit of brotherhood shone brighter than ever — a reminder that even after years of separation and turmoil, the essence of togetherness remains unbroken. The Kashmiri Pandits’ Diwali at Martand Sun Temple, joined by their Muslim neighbours, stood as a living testament to unity, faith, and resilience — a reflection of the timeless spirit of Kashmir that continues to illuminate the valley year after year.
