Eid-e-Milad, the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad, was celebrated with traditional fervour across the Kashmir valley on Friday.

The largest gathering was observed at Asar-e-Sharief Hazratbal, housing the holy relic of the Prophet Muhammad, where thousands of devotees including men, women and children participated in night-long prayers “Shab Khawani” during which special prayers were offered.

Emotional scenes were witnessed when the holy relic of the Prophet was displayed at Hazratbal.

Milad processions were taken out at various parts of the Valley to highlight the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.

The Road Transport Corporation (RTC) operated special buses from Lal Chowk to Hazratbal and other valley routes throughout the day to ferry the devotees.

Stringent security arrangements were put in place in and around the Hazratbal shrine. Police were keeping a close eye on the traffic and parking management.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has greeted the people on the occasion and conveyed best wishes on Eid-e-Milat-un-Nabi (SAW).

He said the holy Prophet showed us the path of an egalitarian society based on compassion, peace, love, harmony and brotherhood.

“May the joyous occasion of Milad-un-Nabi bring peace, prosperity and happiness to all and inspire us to follow the path of righteous living and work for the welfare of all”, the Lt Governor said.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Ministers Faroq, Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti, Omar Abdullah, Altaf Bukhari and several other political leaders have also greeted the people on the auspicious occasion.

The authorities and the Waqf Board had made elaborate arrangements for the devotees at Hazratbal Shrine on the occasion.

(With UNI inputs)