Eid-ul-Fitr was celebrated with religious fervor across Kashmir on Monday, with the largest congregation gathering at the Hazratbal Shrine on the banks of Dal Lake. Thousands of devotees came together to offer prayers at the revered shrine, marking the culmination of the holy month of Ramazan.
However, authorities did not permit Eid prayers at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar’s old city or at the traditional eidgah, leading to strong reactions from the Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid. A significant deployment of security personnel was seen at both locations to prevent any untoward incidents.
The Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid had earlier announced that Eid prayers would be held at the eidgah at 10 AM and had urged the authorities to allow the congregation.
However, restrictions were imposed, and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the chief priest of Kashmir, who was scheduled to deliver the Eid sermon, claimed that he was placed under house arrest ahead of the prayers.
Despite these restrictions, large gatherings for Eid prayers were reported across different districts of the valley, as people dressed in their finest traditional attire assembled at various mosques, eidgahs, and shrines to participate in the special prayers.
Among the prominent figures attending prayers at Hazratbal Shrine were former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah.
Across the region, people embraced the spirit of the festival by visiting relatives and friends, exchanging gifts and greetings, and sharing festive meals. The celebrations reflected a deep sense of community bonding as people came together to mark the joyous occasion.
In the Jammu region, Eid-ul-Fitr was observed with similar enthusiasm, albeit under tight security arrangements. The largest congregation in Jammu city took place at the eidgah on Residency Road, where a large number of worshippers gathered for the morning prayers.
Other significant congregations were held at Mecca Masjid and Jama Masjid Khatikan Talab, where hundreds of Muslims assembled to pray for peace and prosperity.
Religious leaders, including Muftis and scholars, spoke about the spiritual significance of Eid and the philosophy behind the customary acts of charity and sacrifice associated with the festival. Mufti Anayat Tullah, head priest of the Jamia Masjid in Jammu, extended his wishes to the people, emphasising the festival’s role in fostering unity.
He highlighted the longstanding tradition in Jammu of people from different communities coming together during religious celebrations and urged everyone to reject divisive forces.
On the eve of Eid, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah conveyed their greetings to the people of the Union Territory, extending their best wishes for peace, prosperity, and communal harmony.
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