Srinagar: The streets of the Khanyar area in Srinagar have come alive with activity as both locals and pilgrims gather to mark the annual Urs of Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jeelani (RA).
The night-long prayers, which commenced this evening at the Dastgeer Sahab Shrine, have drawn worshippers from across the valley, united in their reverence for the Sufi saint.
With the official Urs celebration set for tomorrow, the shrine is already filled with an atmosphere of spiritual devotion. Stalls lining the streets offer sweets and devotional items, while the air hums with excitement as pilgrims arrive at this sacred site.
“I come here every year, and it always fills me with a sense of peace,” said Shakeela, a pilgrim from Baramulla. “The prayers, the shrine’s atmosphere—it’s an experience that connects me deeply to my faith.”
Preparations for the Urs have been extensive, with the shrine’s administration ensuring all necessary arrangements for the comfort of the attendees. “We’ve coordinated with various departments to ensure everything runs smoothly, from basic facilities to crowd management,” said an official from the shrine.
Tonight’s prayers are set to last through the night, with worshippers seeking blessings and spiritual guidance. For many, the Urs is not just a religious observance but a cherished tradition passed down through generations.
As the night progresses, the shrine will continue to resonate with prayers, and tomorrow’s official Urs is expected to draw even more devotees. Bashir Ahmad, a resident of Bemina, shared his thoughts on the event: “I’ve been attending this since childhood, and now I bring my children. It’s a part of who we are.”
For those attending, the Urs of Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jeelani (RA) offers a moment of reflection, prayer, and a deep connection to the saint’s teachings. As night turns to day, the faithful will remain immersed in devotion, seeking blessings for themselves and their families. (NVI)
