Srinagar, Feb 18 (GNS): Thousands of devotees are expected to throng shrines and Masjids across Kashmir for special prayers on Mehraj-ul-Alam, the night when Prophet Mohammad (SAW) made the journey across the skies.
The biggest congregation is expected at Dargah Hazratbal here where thousands of devotees including men, women and children are likely to attend to have a glimpse of the holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) after five-time prayers. Hundreds of people also participated in night-long prayers.
Local administration has made special arrangements including for management of traffic to ensure smooth movement. Similar congregational prayers are expected in many other shrines in the valley include Jinab Sahib Soura, Aasar-i-Sharief Shahri Kailshpora, Aasar-i-Sharief Lal Bazar, Khanqah-e-Mualla, Dastegeer Sahib Khanyar, Kohimaran, Ziyarat Syed Saib Sonwar and Ziyarat Makdoom Sahib.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has extended his greetings on the eve of Shab-i-Meraj.
In a message, the Lt Governor said: “On the auspicious occasion of Shab-i-Meraj, I convey my greetings to the people. The pious night provides an opportunity to the people to pray and seek forgiveness & blessings from the Almighty God. I pray for the well-being, happiness and prosperity of all.”
National Conference Party President and Member of Parliament from Srinagar Dr. Farooq Abdullah also extended greetings to people on the annual observance of Shab-e- Meraj.
Party President while greeting people said the venerated night of Meraj marks the ascension of Holy Messenger of Allah Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) towards heavens. “The Holy Prophet (PBUH) was gifted with five daily prayers equal to the reward of fifty daily prayers by Allah on the auspicious night. The Meraj is the great gift of Allah to Muslims; it is the most blessed journey of human history. Through this exalted journey, Holy Messenger of Islam (PBUH) taught humanity the merits of knowledge and how crucial it is to unveil the truths of nature. The journey of the Prophet (PBUH) has many lessons for us, the chief among them is importance of knowledge, therefore Muslims should strive towards excellence in knowledge, and quest of enlightenment. I extend my warm greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion, may the blessed night foster unity and consciousness among Muslims. May Almighty pardon our excesses and accept our prayers, and supplications. May the blessed night act as the harbinger of peace, prosperity, tranquillity and communal harmony in J&K,” he said. (GNS)
