Jammu: Jammu witnessed scenes of jubilation and nostalgia on Saturday as Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and his Council of Ministers arrived in the city to formally mark the revival of the traditional Darbar Move, bringing the seat of governance back to the winter capital.
The event, symbolizing the historic biannual shift of government offices between Srinagar and Jammu, drew large crowds along the Secretariat Road, where citizens, traders, and employees lined up to welcome the Chief Minister’s cavalcade. The air resonated with beating drums, traditional dancing and slogans celebrating the reunion of the twin capitals after a gap of several years.
A “pleasant return” for Jammu’s business community
At the Civil Secretariat gates, members of the Jammu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) led by its president Arun Gupta extended a warm welcome to the Chief Minister and his team. “It is a very pleasant occasion to see the Darbar back in Jammu,” said a visibly elated Chamber spokesperson. “This move brings not just administrative presence but economic activity, hospitality business, and the old cultural rhythm of the city back to life.”
The Chamber and other business representatives presented traditional bouquets and shawls to the Chief Minister and several senior ministers. Many traders described the moment as “a homecoming for winter commerce”, recalling how the Darbar’s presence historically boosted Jammu’s trade, transport, and hospitality sectors.
Traders, citizens celebrate with joy
Markets across the city — from Residency Road to Raghunath Bazaar and Canal Road — witnessed spontaneous celebrations. Drummers and local youth groups performed outside prominent markets, while shopkeepers distributed sweets and flower garlands to mark what they called “a sweet reunion of the regions.”
For many, the revival of the Darbar Move is more than a symbolic gesture. “This is not just about offices shifting,” said Rajinder Gupta, a businessman in Purani Mandi. “It is about restoring emotional and cultural ties between Jammu and Kashmir. The movement of officials and citizens across the two regions strengthens understanding, interaction, and shared identity — something that technology alone can’t replace.”
Revival seen as bridge between regions
The Darbar Move — a century-old tradition dating back to the Dogra rule — was temporarily discontinued in recent years in the name of cost-saving and administrative efficiency. However, critics had argued that its suspension weakened Jammu’s seasonal economy and diluted the cultural exchange between the two regions. Many others believe Darbar Move is a symbol of J&K’s composite culture and unity in diversity.
With the revival under the Omar Abdullah-led administration, many see it as a reaffirmation of the state’s composite ethos. “It’s heartening to see the leadership bring back this practice that binds both regions in a rhythm of governance and belonging,” said Prof. Asha Koul, a historian from the University of Jammu. “The Darbar Move has always been a living metaphor for unity in diversity in J&K.”
Government’s symbolic arrival
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who was accompanied by senior ministers and officials, acknowledged the rousing reception, saying the decision to restore the Darbar Move was “driven by sentiment and a sense of shared history.”
Addressing reporters briefly outside the Secretariat, he said, “The Darbar Move has always represented more than a physical shift of files. It represents continuity, connection, and coexistence. Jammu and Kashmir’s administrative rhythm is built around this movement, and we are glad to see it back.”
Senior officers of the Civil Secretariat took charge of their winter offices amid the day-long festivities. Departments began functioning in full swing, with banners and welcome gates set up along the approach roads.
Economic and emotional revival
Economists and trade analysts also welcomed the decision, noting that the Darbar Move traditionally infused fresh spending and employment in Jammu’s economy. “Hotel occupancy, transport, and allied services see a natural upswing with the government’s presence,” said Vikram Singh, a hospitality entrepreneur. “Beyond numbers, it also keeps both capitals engaged in a shared administrative culture.”
As dusk fell, the Secretariat complex remained illuminated, with citizens and employees alike gathering to mark what many described as a “return to normalcy and tradition.”
