Shab-e-Me’raj observed with religious fervour across J&K

Srinagar, Feb 7: Shab-e-Me’raj (Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj or the night journey and ascension) commemorating the heavenly ascent of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was celebrated across Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday and the Masjids and shrines reverberated with Darood-o-Azkaar.

In various parts of Kashmir, late-night prayers were held at prominent Masjids and shrines while even smaller places of worship hosted ceremonies to mark the occasion.

“This holy night symbolises the esteemed life of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and underscores his significance to our faith. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to reflect on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and implement them earnestly,” an Imam at a Masjid in Srinagar downtown said.

During the entire night, Masjids and shrines reverberated with Darood-o-Azkaar and recitations of the holy Quran.

People fervently prayed for the well-being of their loved ones and the enduring peace and prosperity of Kashmir.

Each year the 26th night of the Rajab month of the Islamic calendar marks Shab-e-Me’raj, during which Prophet Muhammad (SAW) embarked on a transcendent journey to meet Allah.

To mark the occasion of Shab-e-Me’raj, the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board announced the prayer schedule at the Hazratbal shrine.

The Holy Relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) would be exhibited after each prayer on the first and second days, and notably on the Friday following Mehraj-ul-Alam.

In the backdrop, the largest congregation at the Dargah Hazratbal shrine in Srinagar was held where thousands joined in night-long prayers.

The religious proceedings at Dargah commenced immediately after Maghrib prayers, featuring Naat and Darood Khawani.

Additionally, Islamic and socio-cultural organisations held traditional special prayers and Mehfil-e-Naat in Masjids and other venues, fostering collective supplication for divine blessings.

Similar reports were received from Chenab Valley, Pir Panjal and Jammu.

Special arrangements were made by the district administration on the occasion of Shab-e-Me’raj, with departments including the Power Development Department (PDD), Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), and the Department of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK) mobilising their resources to ensure seamless celebrations.

In preparation for the event, Traffic Police Srinagar had implemented a detailed traffic plan, directing transporters and local commuters to adhere strictly to the advisory to facilitate smooth traffic movement.

“With a significant number of devotees converged at Dargah Hazratbal for the Me’raj-ul-Aalam celebrations on Wednesday night and the following Friday on February 9, Traffic Police orchestrated elaborate traffic arrangements to facilitate the flow of traffic from different districts of Kashmir, transporting devotees to the Hazratbal shrine," the advisory of the Traffic Department said.