Srinagar, Aug 28 (JKNS): Around one lakh devotees thronged Dargah Hazratbal in Srinagar on Friday as Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), commemorating the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), was observed with deep religious reverence across Kashmir.
Details available with news agency JKNS stated that the largest congregation was held at Dargah Hazratbal on the banks of Dal Lake, where devotees from across the Valley gathered to offer prayers and seek blessings.
The Holy Relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), commonly believed to be a strand of his hair, was displayed for public viewing amid recitations of Durood-o-Azkar, drawing large crowds to the revered shrine.
National Conference president and former Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah also joined the congregational prayers at Hazratbal, along with thousands of devotees who gathered to mark the auspicious occasion.
Special prayers, religious gatherings and Milad programmes were held at Hazratbal and other prominent shrines across Kashmir, with large numbers of men, women and children participating in the congregations.
As the day progressed, a massive gathering of devotees was witnessed at the shrine and its surrounding lawns, particularly during the Friday prayers.
Religious scholars and preachers highlighted the life, teachings and message of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), urging people to follow the values of peace, compassion, brotherhood and mutual respect.
Several Milad gatherings and processions were also held in different parts of Srinagar, including uptown and old city areas.
Congregational gatherings were reported from various districts of north and south Kashmir, including Bandipora, Baramulla, Kupwara, Shopian, Pulwama, Kulgam and Anantnag.
Meanwhile, IGP Kashmir Zone Sujit Kumar Singh reviewed the security arrangements put in place for the occasion, with police and other security personnel deployed at key locations to facilitate the smooth and peaceful observance.
The district administration had made elaborate arrangements at Hazratbal for devotees, with medical camps established around the shrine. Traffic Police also issued a route plan to facilitate the smooth movement of vehicles and devotees.
Roads and streets leading to Hazratbal were decorated with colourful buntings, while markets surrounding the shrine wore a festive look on the occasion.
The observance remained largely peaceful, with devotees offering prayers and participating in religious programmes to mark Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW). (JKNS)