Friday following Eid-e-Milad was observed with religious fervour and gaiety here today.
Devotees thronged the Hazratbal shrine on the banks of the Dal Lake throughout the the day for prayers and supplications and to catch a glimpse of the holy relic of Prophet Muhammad. The maximum rush of devotees was witnessed in the afternoon when devotees converged at the shrine to offer Friday prayers.
Even as Eid-e-Milad celebrations are held across the Valley, the Hazratbal shrine has remained the main centre for holding religious functions related to the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad. ‘Friday following’ is part of the distinct Milad celebrations held in the Valley that is observed on the first Friday falling after Eid-e-Milad. Eid-e-Milad celebrations begin from the first day of the Rabiul-Awwal month of the Islamic calendar.
The authorities had put in place adequate arrangements to cater to the huge rush of devotees. One-way traffic plied to Hazratbal through different routes to the shrine for the convenience of pilgrims. The Traffic police had issued a detailed traffic plan yesterday to cater to the heavy rush of devotees.
Several government departments had set up stalls at Hazratbal for the convenience of pilgrims. Eid-e-Milad processions were also taken out at several places.
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 i.e. the abode of the Prophet.
Hazratbal lights up with prayers
