Lakhs visit Hazratbal shrine, housing holy relic in Kashmir

Srinagar, Aug 12 (UNI) Lakhs of devotees joined the night-long prayers in different mosques, khankas and other shrines in the Kashmir valley on the occasion of Shab-e-Meraj.

However, the main prayer meeting was held at Hazratbal shrine, housing the holy relic of the Prophet Mohammad where more than one lakh devotees from all parts of the valley joined the night-long prayer.

Similar night-long prayer meetings were held in different mosques, khankas and other holy shrines in the Kashmir valley.

The devotees at Hazratbal shrine had a glimpse of the holy relic after the morning prayers this morning. Similarly, lakhs of devotees joining the prayers at Hazratbal will too have the glimpse of the holy relic after every four prayers during the day.

State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) and other private transporters have made arrangements for devotees.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad greeted the people on the occasion and said teachings of the Prophet Mohammad were more relevant today when violence and intolerance had increased across the globe.

Mr Azad urged people to imbibe the teachings of the Prophet Mohammad for making the world a better place to live in.

He highlighted the need for spreading the message of the Holy Prophet who, he said, promoted love, affection, kindness and mutual respect among the humankind.

The cure of the ailments afflicting the world today lay in following the path shown by the Last Messenger (SAW), he said and asked the people to emulate Him in showing compassion even to adversaries.

The Chief Minister described Shab-e-Meraj as the greatest miracle in the human history when 'Almighty Allah' took His most beloved Prophet on journey to the Heavens and shared with Him the secrets of the universe.

Azad asked the people to spare a thought for the deprived and underprivileged sections of the society and share the joy of the auspicious occasion with them.

He also urged the people to offer special prayers for peace and prosperity of the state.

UNI