Srinagar, Sep 5: Kashmir witnessed massive night-long religious gatherings on the eve of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW) as thousands of devotees assembled at Hazratbal and other shrines across the Valley.
The birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), observed on the 12th of Rabi-ul-Awal, the third month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar, drew people in large numbers who spent the night in prayers, recitation, and Shab-e-Khawani.
The largest congregation was held at the Hazratbal shrine on the banks of Dal Lake, where men, women, and children stayed overnight to seek blessings and participate in special prayers.
Devotees said that their supplications this year included pleas for protection from the recurring flood threats looming over Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir.
“We come here every year with our families, but this year our prayers are also for safety from floods that have caused fear again in many areas. Along with asking for forgiveness, we seek relief and well-being for everyone,” said Suhail Ahmad, a devotee from Pulwama.
Officials said that the main congregation will be on Saturday at Hazratbal, where the Holy Relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) will be displayed for devotees after every prayer.
Authorities said that all departments, including Police, Power, Health, and sanitation bodies, had been mobilised to ensure smooth conduct of the event.
An official from Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) said that sanitation drives were carried out at major Masjids and shrines.
“Our men and machinery are on the ground to keep the premises clean and hassle-free for devotees,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Traffic Police issued advisories and set up designated parking zones to manage the rush. Hazratbal has been undergoing renovation and beautification works, with new carpets laid inside the sanctum on the eve of Eid-e-Milad.
Chairperson of J&K Waqf Board, Darakhshan Andrabi, who paid obeisance at the shrine, said that the development projects were progressing despite challenges.
“All people are appreciating the reconstruction and beautification of our shrines. The Waqf Board has resolved to carry forward this mission of development and transparency without compromise. Hazratbal’s new look has received an overwhelming public response,” Andrabi said.
While Hazratbal witnessed the largest gathering, major congregations were also held across south Kashmir at Jamia Masjid Reshi Sahab, Khiram Sirhama, Kaba Marg, Dooru, and Seer Hamdan.
From Srinagar downtown to far-off districts, devotees thronged Masjids to offer special night prayers and participate in religious discourses.
