Srinagar, Mar 21: Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations unfolded across Kashmir on Saturday with traditional fervour, as the largest congregation of worshippers gathered at the Hazratbal Shrine on the banks of Dal Lake. Authorities, however, barred prayers at the historic Jama Masjid in Srinagar’s old city, citing security concerns.
More than 50,000 devotees participated in prayers at Hazratbal, marking the biggest Eid congregation in the valley. Security forces were deployed in large numbers at Jama Masjid in the Nowhatta area to prevent assembly, despite appeals from Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid to allow the religious event.
“For the seventh consecutive year, amid restrictions and house arrests, Eid prayers remain barred at Jama Masjid. A day of celebration turned to grief and denial for Muslims,” Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, chief priest of Kashmir, said on X, criticizing the continued restrictions.
Notable figures, including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah, offered prayers at Hazratbal. Security personnel were also posted at vulnerable locations to curb potential anti-US and anti-Israel demonstrations after prayers.
Eid congregations were reported across all districts of the valley, with men, women, and children dressed in festive attire. Families visited relatives, exchanged greetings, and children eagerly received Eidi (cash gifts) to mark the conclusion of Ramadan.