Massive congregation at Dargah Hazratbal marks Jumat-ul-Vida in Sgr

Saqib Rather
Srinagar, Mar 13: In a profound display of faith and devotion, nearly one lakh worshippers gathered at the revered Hazratbal Shrine on Friday to offer special congregational prayers on the occasion of Jumat-ul-Vida — the last Friday of the holy month of Ramadan.

Devotees from every corner of the Kashmir Valley thronged the historic shrine from the early hours of the morning, creating an atmosphere of spiritual fervour and emotional reflection as they bid farewell to the sacred month. The massive congregation witnessed men, women, and children assembling in large numbers, filling the shrine premises and surrounding areas.
Clad in traditional attire and carrying prayer mats, worshippers participated in the Friday prayers and supplications, seeking peace, prosperity, and communal harmony. Many devotees were seen engaged in recitation of the Holy Quran and personal prayers, while religious sermons highlighted the significance of compassion, charity, and unity during Ramadan.
“I feel a deep sense of peace whenever I come here for Jumat-ul-Vida prayers. It is emotional to see Ramadan come to an end, but we pray that its blessings remain with us throughout the year,” said Abdul Rashid, a devotee who travelled from south Kashmir to attend the prayers.
Another worshipper, Shabnam Bano from north Kashmir, described the gathering as spiritually uplifting. “The atmosphere here is indescribable. People from all walks of life come together with the same faith and hope. It strengthens our belief and sense of community,” she said.
Authorities had made elaborate arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of the prayers. Tight security measures were put in place around the shrine and adjoining routes, while volunteers and officials coordinated crowd management, traffic regulation, and public assistance services.
A senior administration official said, “We anticipated a large turnout and ensured that all necessary facilities, including medical aid, drinking water, and sanitation, were available. Our focus was to facilitate devotees so they could perform their prayers peacefully.”
The eve of Jumat-ul-Vida also witnessed a significant gathering at the shrine, as people assembled for night prayers and spiritual reflection. Religious scholars used the occasion to emphasise the importance of self-discipline, forgiveness, and social responsibility.
As the sun set over the Dal Lake, many devotees lingered in the shrine complex, offering final prayers and sharing moments of quiet contemplation. For thousands, the day symbolised both gratitude for the blessings of Ramadan and hope for continued peace and prosperity in the Valley.