SRINAGAR, Jan 28 – Thousands of devotees gathered at mosques and shrines across Kashmir on Monday night to observe Shab-e-Meraj, the holy night marking the ascension of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to the heavens, according to Islamic tradition.
The largest congregation took place at the Hazratbal shrine in Srinagar, where worshippers braved cold temperatures to participate in night-long prayers and religious activities. The shrine, housing a relic believed to be a hair of the Prophet (SAW), was illuminated with lights as devotees of all ages commemorated the sacred occasion.
“Shab-e-Meraj is a very important night where we seek Almighty’s blessings and reflect on the teachings of the Prophet (SAW),” said a devotee at Hazratbal.
Religious events began following the Maghrib prayers, including recitations of the Quran, naats (poetry in praise of the Prophet), durood khwani (invocations of blessings), and sermons emphasizing the significance of the holy night.
Special Arrangements by Authorities
District authorities in Srinagar implemented extensive arrangements to ensure smooth observances. Officials from the Power Development Department (PDD), Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Health Services, and transport agencies were deployed to facilitate the event.
“In addition to routine work, special sanitation drives were conducted around major religious sites,” said an SMC official. Traffic police ensured the smooth movement of vehicles as thousands of private and public transport vehicles ferried devotees to the Hazratbal shrine and other religious locations.
Prayers Across Kashmir
Shrines including Asar-e-Sharif Janab Sahib Soura, Asar-e-Sharif Shehri Kalashpora, Ziarat-e-Makhdoom Sahib, and Khanqah-e-Mualla also hosted night-long prayers.
In Aishmuqam, the Khanqah-e-Hydari shrine echoed with Darood Salaam and Quranic recitations following Maghrib prayers. A special sermon by Dr. Muhammad Sameer Shafi Siddiqui highlighted the spiritual importance of the Night of Ascension, with prayers offered for global peace, prosperity, and unity among Muslims.
Shab-e-Meraj, observed on the 27th of Rajab in the Islamic calendar, holds profound spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide, marking a night of divine revelation and reflection.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
