Dargah has always been a place of faith and peace, say devotees; Dr Farooq joins congregation; IGP Kashmir reviews security
Rehan Qayoom Mir
An ocean of devotion swept through Dargah Hazratbal on Friday as thousands of devotees gathered at the revered shrine for congregational prayers following Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW, commemorating the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The shrine, located on the banks of Dal Lake, witnessed a flow of devotees from different parts of Kashmir, who joined congregational prayers and religious gatherings amid recitations of Durood-o-Azkar.
According to details obtained by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the Holy Relic believed to be of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was displayed at the shrine, drawing devotees who offered prayers and sought blessings.
The atmosphere around Hazratbal remained deeply spiritual, with devotees filling the shrine premises and adjoining areas as religious scholars and preachers spoke about the life, teachings and message of the Prophet, stressing peace, compassion, brotherhood and mutual respect.
National Conference president and former Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah also joined the congregational prayers at Hazratbal along with thousands of devotees. Several Milad gatherings, prayers and religious programmes were also held at mosques and shrines across Srinagar and other parts of the Valley, with men, women and children participating in large numbers.
Manzoor Ahmed, a devotee from Soura, Srinagar, said Hazratbal has always been a place of faith and peace for him. “Coming here on this blessed occasion gives us a sense of spiritual connection and togetherness,” he said.
Shafique Ahmad, another devotee from Habba Kadal, Srinagar, said the gathering reflected the deep faith of people across Kashmir. “The atmosphere is peaceful and spiritual. People have come from different places to remember the Prophet and seek blessings,” he said.
Congregations were also reported from other districts, including Bandipora, Baramulla, Kupwara, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam and Anantnag, where devotees participated in prayers and Milad programmes. Several areas of Srinagar, including parts of the old city and uptown, also witnessed religious gatherings and processions as people marked the occasion.
IGP Kashmir Zone Sujit Kumar reviewed security arrangements around Hazratbal and other key locations, with police and other security personnel deployed to facilitate the smooth and peaceful movement of devotees.
The district administration had made arrangements for the gathering, including medical facilities near the shrine, while Traffic Police implemented route plans and diversions to regulate vehicular movement in and around Hazratbal.
Many people were also seen enjoying the famous halwa-paratha outside Hazratbal, giving a boost to the business of local vendors—(KNO)