Thousands throng Hazratbal for Eid-e-Milad
Srinagar, Sep 6: A sea of devotees converged on the Dargah Hazratbal shrine on Saturday as Kashmir celebrated Eid-e-Milad, the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
From the early hours, people from across Kashmir thronged the shrine, located on the banks of Dal Lake, to participate in day-long prayers and catch a glimpse of the Holy Relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The shrine, recently renovated, added to the devotional atmosphere.
“This place has always been special, but today it feels different as we join thousands on this holy day. The new look of the shrine has added to our joy, and this place deserves to be in the best shape. More than that, the sunshine after so many days of rain feels like a sign of divine mercy,” said Adil Ahmad, a devotee from Ganderbal.
For many, the clear skies till later evening brought visible relief.
The devotees said that continuous rains during the past week had raised fears of floods in Srinagar and adjoining areas.
Devotees said that as the weather cleared, they offered special prayers for Kashmir’s safety.
“We prayed that Allah spare us from another flood. We want peace, safety, and blessings in our lives,” said Fehmida, a resident of Rajbagh.
The day was marked by religious processions, with men, women, and children carrying green flags and chanting praises of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Major congregations were also reported from south and north Kashmir, including Reshi Sahab Anantnag, Khiram Sirhama, Kaba Marg, Dooru, Seer Hamdan, and Sopore, where thousands offered prayers.
At Hazratbal, the shrine premises and adjoining markets remained abuzz.
Streets were decked with lights while vendors lined the roadsides selling food, religious items, and other goods.
“On such days, we earn our livelihood. The rush this year was overwhelming, especially after the weather opened up,” said Bashir Ahmad, a vendor.
Meanwhile, authorities had put in place elaborate arrangements to manage the huge gatherings.
Officials from J&K Police, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Power Development Department (PDD), Health Department, and Road Transport Corporation were deployed to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.
Traffic Police had designated special parking zones to ease movement.
“Our personnel were on the ground since Friday night. Volunteers also assisted us in streamlining traffic. Despite the heavy rush, there was no major disruption,” said a traffic official.
Officials said that special sanitation drives were carried out by the SMC.
PDD officials said an uninterrupted supply was maintained during the night-long prayers and Saturday’s congregations.
For worshippers, the day was not just about celebration but also reflection.
“Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is the greatest blessing for humanity. If we truly follow his teachings, all our social ills can end,” said Muhammad Yousuf, a devotee.
Devotees said that as the Holy Relic was displayed amid chants of Darood and Salaam, the renovated Hazratbal echoed with devotion a reminder of both faith and resilience.
