Srinagar, Aug 26: Thousands of devotees thronged the revered Dargah Hazratbal shrine and other major shrines across Kashmir on Wednesday as the Valley joined the Muslim world in celebrating Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), amid an atmosphere of devotion, festivity, and reverence.
The celebrations began on Tuesday night, when devotees from different parts of the Valley gathered at Hazratbal for night-long prayers and religious congregations.
Worshippers spent the night reciting the Holy Quran, Darood, and devotional hymns while special sermons highlighting the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) were delivered.
From the early hours of Wednesday, a steady stream of devotees continued to pour into the shrine to offer prayers and witness the display of the holy relic after the congregational prayers.
As the relic was displayed, emotional scenes unfolded with devotees raising their hands in supplication, many breaking down in tears while chants of Darood and Salaam echoed across the shrine premises.
“It is a moment that fills every believer with peace and gratitude. We prayed for harmony, prosperity and blessings for the entire Valley,” said Adil Ahmad, a devotee from Pulwama.
The clear weather encouraged large gatherings, with devotees describing the clear skies as a blessing that allowed people to participate comfortably in the celebrations.
Major congregations were also held at Reshi Sahib Anantnag, Khiram Sirhama, Seer Hamdan, Kaba Marg, Dooru, Sopore and several other shrines across Kashmir, where thousands offered special prayers.
The day also witnessed Milad processions in various towns and localities.
Participants carrying green flags and banners marched through the streets while reciting praises of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Religious organisations said similar processions and programmes would continue across the Valley during the upcoming days of Rabi-ul-Awwal.
Across Srinagar and other districts, roads, mosques and marketplaces were adorned with green flags, decorative lights and welcome banner.
Volunteers had worked for days decorating major roads leading to religious places.
“Every year our volunteers decorate the Foreshore Road and adjoining areas with banners and lights to welcome devotees. It is our humble way of expressing love for the Prophet (SAW) and serving the people visiting Hazratbal,” said a volunteer from Shalimar.
Outside Hazratbal shrine, adjoining markets remained abuzz throughout the day as devotees purchased snacks, refreshments, religious items, and other goods, creating a festive atmosphere.
Meanwhile, authorities had made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the celebrations.
Personnel from the J&K Police, Traffic Police, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Health Department, Power Development Department, and other agencies remained deployed across the shrine and major congregation points.
“Our personnel remained on the ground to regulate traffic, create designated parking zones and ensure smooth movement of devotees. Diversions were planned in advance, and with the cooperation of volunteers, the arrangements remained largely hassle-free,” said a Traffic Police official.
An SMC official said special sanitation drives, cleaning operations and deployment of men and machinery were carried out around Hazratbal and other major religious places to maintain cleanliness during the celebrations.
Since Tuesday evening, political leaders from different parties also visited Hazratbal Shrine to pay obeisance and extend greetings to devotees on the auspicious occasion.
For worshippers, the occasion remained a celebration of faith and reflection.
“The teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) guide humanity towards compassion, justice and peace. We pray that these values continue to unite our society,” said Muhammad Younis, a devotee.
