Friday following Eid-e-Milad was observed with traditional fervour here today with devotees thronging the Hazratbal shrine on the banks of Dal Lake throughout the course of the day for prayers and supplications.
A large number of devotees were seen at the shrine, especially to offer Friday prayers and to catch a glimpse of the holy relic of Prophet Muhammad.
Even as the Milad celebrations are held across the Valley, the Hazratbal shrine has remained the main centre for holding religious functions. The Milad celebrations in Kashmir had begun in the 18th century after the holy relic arrived here. Bagh-i-Sadiqabad, where the holy relic was placed, came to be known as Hazratbal, the abode of the prophet.
‘Friday following’ is part of distinct Milad celebrations held in the Valley that is observed on the first Friday falling after Eid-e-Milad. Eid-e-Milad, the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad, was observed yesterday on the 12th Rabiul-Awwal of the Islamic calendar.
Milad processions were also taken out at several places in different parts of the Valley yesterday to highlight the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
The authorities had put in place adequate arrangements to cater to a huge rush of devotees. One-way traffic was allowed to Hazratbal through different routes to the shrine for the convenience of pilgrims.
Several government departments had set up their stalls at the Hazratbal shrine for the convenience of pilgrims.
Devotees throng Hazratbal shrine for special prayers
