SRINAGAR: Despite being reduced to ashes in a major fire earlier this week, the historic Bazar Masjid, which holds significant religious importance, was once again visited by a big crowd of devotees who offered the Friday congregational prayers.
Amidst the scorching heat and the absence of a roof, windows, doors, and other necessary amenities, a large number of people still offered prayers in the open space.
The Masjid management and locals, after cleaning the Masjid vicinity, made temporary arrangements for the congregational prayers.
A special fundraising appeal was made for the rebuilding of both the houses and the historic Bazar Masjid, which were burnt in the devastating fire.
“Today’s sermon was all about unity and trial. We prayed before Almighty Allah to help us come out of this trouble. A fundraising appeal was also made for the houses and Masjid damaged in the massive blaze,” said a senior functionary of the Masjid.
The devastating Bohri Kadal fire on Monday earlier this week reduced properties worth crores to ashes. The massive fire also engulfed the over-century-old historic Bazar Masjid in downtown Srinagar.
The massive damage has left people in deep shock and grief. According to some locals, the mosque was built around 1920 and has been an iconic center for Islamic learning and a pillar of the community for decades.
Amaan, a local resident, said that the Bazar Masjid had a capacity to hold over 2,400 worshippers and has long been revered for its significant role in Islamic education. “It was here that Moulana Ghulam Nabi Mubarakpuri, a respected scholar, delivered early Islamic teachings and sermons,” he said.
He added that the mosque has been an epicenter of religious and educational activities in the region. The Masjid also housed an Islamic seminary where many students pursued religious studies.
The fire, which broke out on Monday afternoon, quickly spread through the mosque and the surrounding area. Despite the efforts of firefighters, the blaze not only consumed the Masjid but also damaged three shopping complexes and over ten nearby houses.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic and heartbreaking as residents and business owners watched helplessly while the flames devoured their beloved mosque and livelihoods.
Another local resident, Imran Ahmad, expressed his sorrow and grief, saying, “The Bazar Masjid was not just a place of worship; it was a symbol of our heritage and a center for learning. Seeing it in flames was like losing a part of our soul.” (KNO)
