Opinion | Ghanta Ghar Chronicles : From Chaos to Calm 

Ghanta Ghar in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk has transformed from a symbol of political unrest into a vibrant tourist hub. Once the epicenter of protests and turmoil, it now represents peace and progress, with bustling markets and cultural events revitalizing the area after the abrogation of Article 370. Despite its renewal, it remains a reminder of Kashmir’s resilient journey from conflict to hope.

Nestled in the bustling Lal Chowk area of Srinagar, Ghanta Ghar, or the Clock Tower, is more than just a timepiece; it is a symbol of Kashmir’s history, resilience, and transformation. .For so many decades, this clock tower, as an important landmark of the valley, silently observing the turmoil of that time, yet in these very recent years, it has undergone a metamorphosis. Ghanta Ghar, a symbol once associated with unrest and protests , now pulsates as a tourist hotspot that draws in visitors from all parts of the nation. The history of Ghanta Ghar , how it has changed over the pre-abrogation to post-abrogation times, is explained in the following article, which is an analysis of the historic moment of its transformation into the icon of peace and prosperity.
Lal Chowk, often referred to as the heart of Srinagar, serves as a bustling commercial hub in the capital city. The name “Lal Chowk” traces its origins to Moscow’s famous Red Square, reflecting the influence of leftist ideology. It is believed that a group of passionate Communists in Srinagar named the area after Lenin’s rise to power in Moscow in 1917. Over time, Lal Chowk became synonymous with the left-leaning, nationalist politics of Kashmiri leaders during the Soviet Union’s prominence. In those years, it was a prominent site for public protests. In 1980, Bajaj Electricals installed a Clock Tower, known as Ghanta Ghar, at the centre of Lal Chowk. Initially, the structure functioned as an advertisement for the company in Srinagar. However, it was not maintained for years and eventually stopped working. Over the years, the advertising symbol became a political symbol. It was the place where Sheikh Abdullah as the elected Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, expressed his allegiance to Nehru and India in a Persian couplet, saying “Man Tu Shudam, Tu Man Shudi, Taqas Na Goyed, Man Degram Tu Degri (I became you and you became I; so none can say we are separate)”. I n Kashmir, with Ghanta Ghar standing tall as a silent observer of the region’s evolving narrative. For the Kashmiri people, Ghanta Ghar came to symbolize a space for expression, where political movements gained momentum and history was etched into the fabric of the valley.

Before the abrogation of article 370 , political chaos, separatist movements, militancy, and regular protests and violent clashes between the protesters and the security forces characterized Kashmir . Ghanta Ghar, being in the heart of Lal Chowk, was at the center of this unrest . Ghanta Ghar and the areas around it were always the focal areas of the protests, the processions and other political activities. During the protests, flags of different separatist groups were hoisted on the tower and the slogans of discontent echoed in the air. Violent clashes after the protests resulted in the destruction of much property; Lal Chowk became a battleground for civilians and security forces. Shops in the surroundings shut shop for days owing to hartals and the once buzzing marketplace area turned into an desolate place. There was a towering presence of barricades and armed forces which added to the horrible environment. To both the tourists and the inhabitants, Lal Chowk represented a place that was embroiled in conflict whose immediate focus was Ghanta Ghar.
The removal of Article 370, which provided Jammu and Kashmir with special status, has been described as a turning point for the region. The first 8-9 months after the abrogation were characterised by the imposition of curfews, suspension of communications, and fear. Lal Chowk, comprising Ghanta Ghar, remained and even “haunted” stillness as the security measures were intensified. But as the time passed forward, things started changing slowly. The focus of the state and local administrators shifted towards developments in the sectors of infrastructure, tourism, and the overall normalcy of the situation. This shift in attention resulted in the transformation of Lal Chowk, which was the focus of most changes, with Ghanta Ghar being centrally placed among them.
Today, Ghanta Ghar has transformed from a symbol of unrest into a lively tourist hotspot. The surroundings of the clock tower have been improved with better roads, cleaner areas, and artistic lighting as a part of Srinagar smart City project , making it a welcoming place for visitors. Once linked to political strife and secessionist movements , the tower now serves as a popular backdrop for selfies, social media posts, and travel vlogs. Tourists flock to Lal Chowk to purchase Kashmiri handicrafts, pashmina shawls, and dry fruits from the nearby markets. Cafés and restaurants have emerged, serving authentic Kashmiri dishes to both locals and visitors. The streets, which were once quiet during protests, now buzz with the energy of enthusiastic shoppers and curious travellers . Events and festivals held around Ghanta Ghar have further boosted its charm. Cultural programs, art exhibitions, and musical performances are regularly organized in the area, highlighting Kashmir’s rich heritage. In fact, hundred of tourist, pedestrians and locals watched the momentous Chandarayan-3 landing on 23rd of August while sitting so comfortably in the peaceful ambiance of colorful Lal Chowk within the elegant company of leaping fountains, gleaming floor-lights fitted in tiles, swings for kids, flower-beds amid lit-up surroundings and more. During festive times, the tower is adorned with colourful lights, turning it into a symbol of celebration and joy.
The transformation of Ghanta Ghar and Lal Chowk is closely tied to the revival of tourism in Kashmir. Recognizing the region’s potential as a tourist destination, the government has taken steps to improve Kashmir’s image as the “Paradise on Earth.” The peaceful surroundings of Ghanta Ghar have played a crucial role in attracting tourists, who now feel safe while visiting Srinagar’s iconic sites. This surge in visitors has also significantly benefited local businesses, breathing new life into the area’s economy. Lal Chowk, once a place to steer clear of, has turned into one of the most popular spots in Srinagar, thanks to its central location and historical significance.
While the transformation of Ghanta Ghar is a cause for celebration, it is not without challenges. Many still suffer mental and emotional wounds, which are still quite sore. For some, Ghanta Ghar still represents the struggles and sacrifices made in the years of violence turmoil. Furthermore, the emphasis on tourism and development needs to go hand in hand with the prevailing socio-political reality of the region. Lasting peace and development would be achieved in Kashmir only when the expectations and concerns of the people of Kashmir are understood and redressed.
Ghanta Ghar has it’s symbolic significance. It shows how a symbol of unrest could turn into one for tourism. It mirrors a wider transformation of the land: it symbolises peoples’ resilience, endeavors toward changing the image of a region, and people’s hope for a promising future. For the generation which has grown up recently, Ghanta Ghar holds a sense of pride, with the positivity echoing all around, and, after all, it still reverberates with valley’s rich heritage and prospective outlook. For the older generations, it is a reminder of the struggles of the past and a testament to the unyielding spirit of Kashmiris.

Ghanta Ghar stands tall in the heart of Lal Chowk, its hands ticking forward as time heals the wounds of the past. Its transformation from a site of violence to a hub of tourism is one of the most powerful stories of change, resilience, and hope. Today, the clock tower tells the tale of Kashmir in the silence: a tale of struggle, survival, and renewal. While tourists stop by to gaze at the beauty of Ghanta Ghar, it reminds locals going about their daily lives that time progresses, bringing with it a promise of a peaceful and prosperous Kashmir. In the ever-changing landscape of the valley, Ghanta Ghar remains a steadfast witness to history, its enduring presence a symbol of the spirit of the people. From turmoil to tranquility, the journey of Ghanta Ghar is a testament to the resilience of Kashmir and its unwavering hope for a brighter tomorrow.

By : Nabeel jehangir
nabeeljehangir885@gmail.com