Srinagar: Mehraj-Ul-Alam, the auspicious occasion of Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) ascension to the heavens, was observed all across the Kashmir valley with religious fervor on Sunday.

The largest gathering was observed at Asar-e-Sharief Hazratbal, housing the holy relic of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), on the bank of Dal Lake where thousands of devotees including men, women, and children participated in night-long prayers “Shab Khawani” during which special prayers were offered on the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday.

Soon after the first prayer of the day “Fajr” namaz was offered today at the Hazratbal shrine, a priest displayed the “Moie-e-Muqadas” or Holy relic of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) before the devotees on the occasion. The devotees would have a glimpse of the holy relic after every prayer for the two days at the shrine and on the following Friday.

Late-night prayer functions were also held at Jenab Sahab Soura, Srinagar, and other shrines and mosques of the valley on Saturday.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extended his greetings on the eve of Shab-I-Mehraj.

“Greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion of Shab-I-Mehraj. The pious night provides an opportunity for the people to pray and seek forgiveness and blessings from the Almighty God. I pray for the well-being, happiness, and prosperity of all”, said the Lieutenant Governor in his message.

Meanwhile, elaborate arrangements were made by the authorities for the devotees at the Hazratbal Shrine.

(With UNI inputs)