Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, Feb 8: Thousands of devotees thronged shrines and mosques across Kashmir today to offer special prayers on the occasion of Meraj-e-Alam.
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The largest congregation for Meraj-e-Alam, also known as the night of ascent when the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ascended to the heavens, took place at the Hazratbal shrine.
Thousands of devotees, both men and women, converged at the shrine to catch a glimpse of the sacred relic of the Prophet, which was displayed five times throughout the day. The revered shrine, situated on the bank of Dal Lake, saw the participation of thousands of devotees, including men, women, and children, in night-long prayers known as “Shab Khawani,” during which special prayers were offered.
Following the first prayer of the day, the “Fajr” namaz, at the Hazratbal shrine, a priest displayed the “Moie-e-Muqadas,” or holy relic of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), before the devotees. Devotees had the opportunity to glimpse the holy relic after every prayer over the two days at the shrine, as well as on the following Friday.
Emotional scenes unfolded each time the Holy relic was displayed, with tears rolling down the faces of the faithful. “Today, I pray for the peace and prosperity of the entire world. May this day mark the end of all suffering for people worldwide,” expressed one devotee.
Late-night prayers were also held at Jenab Sahab Soura Srinagar, Asar-e-Sharif Shahri Kalashpora, Srinagar, Qabamarg Anantnag, Khiram Shareef, Narvora Dangerpora, and other mosques and shrines in the Valley.
Authorities also deployed Srinagar Smart City Buses to transport devotees to the Holy shrine of Hazratbal from various parts of Kashmir, including Srinagar.
Meanwhile, elaborate arrangements were made by the authorities for the devotees at the Hazratbal Shrine.
Pertinently, Muslims celebrate this day on the 27th of Rajab (Hijri calendar) each year, commemorating the two parts of a night journey that the Prophet undertook during a single night around the year 621. Additionally, during Me’raj, the command for the five daily prayers (Nimaz) was given to the Prophet of Islam.
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