Srinagar: Devotees flock to Hazratbal shrine for ‘Shab-e-Meraj’ prayers

Thousands of devotees congregated at the Hazratbal shrine in Srinagar to offer prayers in celebration of ‘Meraj-e-Alam’ (the night of the Prophet’s ascension to heaven). (Image credits: PTI)

The Shab-e-Meraj is celebrated on the 27th of rajab as per the Islamic (hijri) calendar, and Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad ascended to the highest levels of the heavens on this night. The muslim devotees observe the whole night in special prayers, Islamic sermons, and other religious activities to mark the holy night across the world. (Image credits: PTI)

The sacred relic was brought to Kashmir in 1700. The original structure of the shrine was built in the 17th century by Sadiq Khan, a subedar of emperor Shah Jahan. (Image credits: PTI)

The Hazratbal shrine, regarded as the holiest Muslim shrine in Kashmir, stands on the left bank of Dal Lake. It was founded by Inayat Begum, the custodian of the sacred relic Moi-e-Muqqadas, believed to be a hair of Prophet Mohammed. (Image credits: AP)

Men, women, and children overcome with emotion, wept and wailed as they had the ‘Deedar’ (glimpse) of the Holy relic, displayed by its custodian during the pre-dawn ‘Nimaz’. Numerous street vendors selling sweetmeats, hosiery, footwear, food, and other essentials gathered to offer their goods to the devotees, as this event marks one of the largest gatherings in the Valley’s Islamic calendar. (Image credits: PTI)

At Hazratbal dargah, visitors can photograph thousands of pigeons, and sometimes catch them flying against the shrine's backdrop. Men are allowed inside the prayer hall, while women can access only the outer hall. The shrine has appeared in Bollywood films like Fanaa, Haider, and Mission Kashmir. (Image credits: PTI)

Tahir, a local resident from Lal Bazar, Srinagar, shared that witnessing the holy relic at Hazratbal shrine fills their hearts with a deep sense of connection to their faith and Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). (Image credits: PTI)

Preparations are in full swing for the upcoming celebration of the Friday following Shab-e-Mehraj on February 16. The faithful are eagerly anticipating the chance to honor this sacred event with prayers, supplications, and acts of charity. (Image credits: PTI)