Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Feb 7: Late-night prayers were held across Kashmir on the occasion of Shab-e-Meraj, the night of ascendance of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to the heavens.
The largest gathering was held at Dargah Hazratbal shrine here, where thousands of people, including men, women, and children, participated in prayers that continued throughout the night.
The Holy Relic of the Prophet (SAW) was also displayed to the people after the culmination of the prayers.
This spiritual event, significant in Islamic tradition, is observed on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab.
Locals, alongside pilgrims, were seen preparing for the auspicious night with reverence and piety before the evening prayers.
Communities were abuzz with preparations throughout the day, with mosques in localities witnessing jam-packed gatherings late into the night.
One focal point of the Shab-e-Meraj observance was the revered Dargah Hazratbal, where devotees from all walks of life converged to pray for peace and blessings.
Ahead of the event, authorities had made necessary arrangements to facilitate people during this auspicious night.
The Holy Relic of the Prophet (SAW) will continue to be displayed at Dargah Hazratbal on Thursday and Friday after every prayer of the day.
“This occasion is impactful and during this I prayed for the peace and prosperity of the people of J&K,” said one of the pilgrims, Ghulam Hassan at Dargah Hazratbal.
An official said that all the arrangements are in place and will continue to remain in place on Thursday as well as Friday which will be observed as the Friday following.
“The road plan has been put in place and the people are urged to follow the same in order to ensure a seamless entry and exit to Dargah Hazratbal; for next few days, the increased transportation facilities will also remain in place and it will be ensured that people reach here easily,” officials said.