SRINAGAR: The holy month of Ramadan is one of the most significant periods for Muslims worldwide, and it is celebrated with great fervour in Jammu & Kashmir as well. The month of Ramadan is observed by Muslims as a time for self-reflection, spiritual growth, and increased devotion to Allah. The highlight of this month is the Shab-e-Qadr or the Night of Power, which is considered one of the holiest nights in Islam.
This year, Shab-e-Qadr was celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion throughout Jammu & Kashmir. After a gap of three years, the Isha and Taraweeh prayers were held in the historic Jama Masjid Srinagar, the spiritual hub of Kashmiri Muslims. A large number of people from across the valley gathered at the grand mosque to seek forgiveness from Allah on this Night of Power.
The Jama Masjid Srinagar is a significant religious landmark in Jammu & Kashmir and has been the center of Islamic teachings and spirituality for centuries. The mosque has played a vital role in shaping the religious and cultural identity of the people of the valley.
However, this year’s celebrations were marred by the absence of Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq, the head of Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid. Dr Farooq has been under detention for nearly four years, and as per the statement issued by Anjuman, he could not lead the collective prayer or deliver the sermon on the Night of Power.
The Anjuman expressed its disappointment at Dr Farooq’s continued detention and called for his unconditional release on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. The Anjuman also expressed hope that the authorities would consider the importance of Dr Farooq’s role in the religious and spiritual life of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
