Eid celebrated with fervour across J&K amid tight security

Jammu/Srinagar, March 21: Eid-ul-Fitr was celebrated with religious fervour and gaiety across Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, with thousands of devotees offering prayers at mosques and Eidgahs amid elaborate security arrangements.

In Jammu, large congregations were seen at various locations, with the main gathering at Eidgah on Residency Road drawing thousands of worshippers. A spirit of festivity marked the celebrations, people exchanged greetings and large gatherings were seen at mosques which were decorated magnificently and the markets were abuzz with activity.

Meanwhile, elaborate security and other necessary arrangements were made by civil and police administration for smooth celebration of Eid festival.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha extended greetings to the people on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr.

In his message, the Lieutenant Governor has said, “On the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, I extend my heartiest greetings and good wishes to all.

The festival of Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the auspicious culmination of the holy month of Ramzan, is an occasion of profound spiritual and social significance.

The sacred festival embodies the noble spirit of sacrifice and the joy of sharing. On this auspicious day, let us recommit to humanity’s service, uplifting the lives of the poor and needy.

“May Eid usher in peace, prosperity and happiness for all,” he added.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as to those celebrating across the globe, on the auspicious occasions of Eid-ul-Fitr and Nauroz.

In his message on these festive occasions, the Chief Minister underscored the spiritual significance of Eid as a divine celebration after a month of fasting, prayers and self-discipline during Ramadan.

In Kashmir, the largest congregation was held at Hazratbal Shrine, where over 50,000 devotees offered prayers. However, authorities barred Eid prayers at the historic Jama Masjid in Srinagar’s old city, with heavy security deployment in Nowhatta to prevent gatherings.

Prominent leaders, including Omar Abdullah and Farooq Abdullah, offered prayers at Hazratbal. Security was tightened across Srinagar amid concerns over protests.

Eid, marking the end of Ramadan, was celebrated with traditional enthusiasm, with families visiting relatives, exchanging greetings, and children receiving Eidi. Authorities had deployed security personnel at sensitive locations across Srinagar amid apprehensions of anti-US and anti-Israel protests following prayers.

Reports of large Eid congregations were received from all districts of the Valley, with people dressed in festive attire assembling at mosques, shrines and Eidgahs.