Srinagar
Eid-ul-Azha was observed across Kashmir on Wednesday with thousands of worshippers gathering at mosques, shrines and eidgahs to offer special prayers marking the festival that honours the spirit of sacrifice and devotion associated with Prophet Abraham.
The largest prayer congregation took place at the Hazratbal shrine in Srinagar, where officials said more than 60,000 devotees participated in Eid prayers. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti were among those present at the shrine.
Prayer meetings were also held at various mosques and shrines across the Valley. However, no Eid prayers were allowed at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar’s old city. Authorities also denied permission to the Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid to organise congregational prayers at the Eidgah grounds and the grand mosque in Nowhatta.
As part of the traditional observances linked to Eid-ul-Azha, people across Kashmir sacrificed sheep, goats and other animals.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha extended greetings to the people on the occasion and wished for peace, happiness and prosperity. In a message shared on X, he said the festival reflects the values of compassion, love and forgiveness.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also greeted the people, describing Eid-ul-Azha as a festival symbolising faith, sacrifice and compassion. He expressed hope that the occasion would further strengthen communal harmony, brotherhood and mutual respect in society.
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Officials said the celebrations across the Valley remained peaceful, with no untoward incident reported. Political leaders from different parties also conveyed Eid greetings to the public.
