Insha Shirazi
Srinagar, Feb 8: Thousands of devotees from all over Kashmir converged at the revered shrine Hazratbal in Srinagar to have the glimpse of the holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) on the occasion of Meraj-e-Alam (SAW) on Thursday.
Meraj-e- Alam (SAW) was celebrated with great religious fervour across J&K. From Wednesday evening, thousands of devotees from far off places of Kashmir reached the Hazratbal shrine to be part of the night-long gathering. Duroods, Khatmatul Moazamat and naats were recited throughout the night at the shrine after which the holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was displayed to devotees soon after the Fajar (pre-dawn) prayers. As per reports, similar gatherings were held in the Jammu region as well.
Thousands of people were seen rushing towards the shrine for Zuhr (afternoon prayers) and to have a glimpse of the holy relic. Holy relic was displayed after every prayer of the day.
The 26th night of Islamic month Rajab is observed as Meraj-e-Aalam (SAW) across the world. It was the night, when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) descended on the journey of skies in the middle of the night.
Emotional scenes were witnessed at the shrine when the holy relic was displayed for the devotees after Zuhr prayers. People, children and women were seen praying amid moist eyes. “This is the time when our prayers get answered,” Shameema, a woman devotee, who had come from northern district of Kupwara said.
Like her, there were scores of women seeking the blessings of Almighty Allah while the holy relic was on a display. “Have the glimpse of the holy relic gives us relief from the pain. This soothes our eyes, hearts and purifies our hearts,” said Ali Muhammad Darzi, a resident of Srinagar.
Children including young boys and girls were also seen in tears while having the glimpse of the holy relic.
Meanwhile, the medical camps had been set up at the shrine and the administration had made excellent arrangements for the devotees. For the protection of the devotees, policemen were deployed in length. As per the shrine administration, the holy relic will be displayed for the devotees after every prayer tomorrow as its Friday. “We expect a large gathering at the shrine tomorrow (Friday),” an a caretaker of the shrine.
