Srinagar- Eid-ul-Azha, the festival of sacrifice, will be observed with solemnity across Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday.
The celebration of Eid-ul-Azha is to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to Allah and his readiness to sacrifice his son, Ismail (Pbuh).
This year, the biggest congregational Eid prayers are expected to be held at Hazratbal shrine and Jamia Masjid in the Old City of Srinagar. However, there would be no Eid prayers at the historic Eidgah, Jamia Masjid managing body said Wednesday.
In a statement, the Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid said the decision was conveyed to the managing body by the authorities.
The congregational Eid prayers have not been allowed at the Eidgah for the last many years now.
“This is to inform the public that authorities have conveyed to Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid that once again, Eid ul Adha prayers will not be allowed at the historic and central Eidgah Srinagar,” the statement said.
It said the district administration officials conveyed the decision to Anjuman Auqaf this morning. In keeping with traditions, the Anjuman had announced that Eid prayers will be held at Eidgah Srinagar at 9 am.
“Barring prayers at Eidgah which is the central place designated for these special community prayers for centuries is extremely unfortunate and condemnable, hurting the sentiments of lakhs of Muslims of the Valley and outside and a poor reflection on the state of affairs in Jammu and Kashmir,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha on Wednesday greeted the people on the eve of Eid-ul-Azha.
In his message, the LG said, “On the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Azha, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all.”
“The holy festival is a celebration of the spirit of sacrifice and brotherhood. The joyous occasion inspire each one of us to follow the path of love, compassion and forgiveness,” he said.
“May the festival of Eid-ul-Azha usher in peace, prosperity and happiness for all”, he added.
LG’s Advisor, Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar also extended his warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Azha.
In his message, Bhatnagar said this joyous festival, celebrated by Muslims around the world, holds great significance and marks a time of unity, compassion, and gratitude. He added that this festival serves as a reminder of the importance of selflessness, devotion, and the spirit of sharing among individuals and communities.
“On this blessed occasion of Eid ul Adha, I extend my heartfelt greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir especially the Muslim brotherhood and may this festival bring immense joy, happiness, and spiritual fulfilment to our lives”, Bhatnagar said.
National Conference President, Member of Parliament from Srinagar Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Vice President Omar Abdullah also extended warm greetings to the people on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Azha. In his message Dr. Farooq said,
“As the Muslim Ummah unite to observe Eid Al Azha, I take this opportunity to extend my warm greetings to everyone on the blessed and auspicious occasion. The auspicious day commemorates the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) to sacrifice his son, Hazrat Ismail (AS) in the way of the Almighty. The all merciful Almighty however spared Hazrat Ismail (AS) by staying in Hazrat Ibrahim’s hand and placing a ram in his place. Hence the day is reminiscent of the greatest sacrifice in the history of mankind. On this day, it is imperative for all of us to prioritize the poor and deserving by doing everything possible to bring smiles on their faces. The core philosophy of the day evokes deep concern for the needy and offers us a window of opportunity to alleviate the plight of the poor and destitute and imbue ourselves with the spirit of compassion, generosity, empathy and care. May the day provide relief to the beleaguered people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh and rid them of all the tribulations and problems they are facing.”
People’s Democratic Party (JKPDP) president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti extended warm greetings and best wishes to the people on the auspicious occasion of Eid ul Azha.
In her message, Mehbooba emphasised the importance of Eid ul Azha as a time for introspection, gratitude, and coming together as a community.”Eid ul Azha is a reminder for all of us to strengthen our bonds of love and compassion, to extend a helping hand to those in need, and to practice empathy and generosity. Let us celebrate this joyous occasion with a sense of unity, spreading happiness and goodwill among all”, she said.
On the occasion, Mehbooba expressed her earnest desire for peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir and the entire region. She prayed for a joyous and blessed Eid ul Azha to everyone & expressed hope that this festive occasion would bring peace, harmony, and prosperity to Jammu and Kashmir and foster unity among its diverse communities.
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