Srinagar, May 26 (KNO): Jammu and Kashmir is all set to observe Eid-ul-Adha, the festival of sacrifice, on Wednesday.
Thousands of people are expected to offer congregational Eid prayers at Eidgahs, mosques and shrines across J&K.
The largest gathering, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), is likely to be held at the revered Hazratbal Shrine on the outskirts of Srinagar city. Large congregations are also expected at Eidgahs in various district headquarters.
Following the prayers, people will sacrifice sheep and other animals to mark the occasion. Eid-ul-Adha, one of the most significant festivals in Islam, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son in obedience to the command of Allah.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and others have extended heartiest greetings to the people on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha while extending the greetings said that Eid-ul-Adha symbolizes sacrifice, unity and brotherhood, urging people to embrace compassion, forgiveness and harmony.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted the teachings of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) and Hazrat Ismail (AS), stating that Eid promotes sacrifice, generosity and communal harmony. He also urged people to support the underprivileged.
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah also extended greetings, stressing compassion, equality and responsibility towards the needy, while praying for peace and prosperity in the region.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq extended Eid greetings while expressing grief over the Budgam incident involving a minor girl, calling it deeply distressing and a reason for societal introspection. He said Eid was being observed in a sombre atmosphere.
People’s Conference President Sajad Gani Lone also conveyed Eid greetings, wishing peace, prosperity and well-being for the people.
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti extended Eid greetings, praying for peace, joy and blessings for all.
Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari called for introspection over what he termed a decline in moral and social values, citing rising crime, drug abuse and the recent Budgam tragedy as a moment for collective reflection.
Meanwhile, several ministers also extended greetings on the occasion.
Minister for Food, Civil Supplies, IT, Youth Services & Sports, Transport, and Science & Technology Satish Sharma said Eid-ul-Adha symbolizes sacrifice, devotion and compassion, adding that festivals strengthen unity, mutual respect and communal harmony. He urged people to support the underprivileged and promote togetherness.
Minister for Health, Social Welfare and Education Sakeena Itoo said Eid promotes sacrifice, brotherhood and selfless service, praying for peace, prosperity and good health for all households.
Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana described Eid-ul-Adha as a symbol of sacrifice and selflessness, saying it strengthens communal harmony and social cohesion, while urging people to celebrate with unity and compassion.
Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department Javid Ahmad Dar said Eid inspires values of sacrifice, generosity and empathy, and called for strengthening peace, harmony and support for the underprivileged.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary said Eid carries immense religious and cultural significance and symbolizes discipline, devotion and surrender to the Almighty. He noted that Jammu and Kashmir has always reflected communal harmony and brotherhood, praying for peace and progress.
Leaders across party lines expressed hope that Eid-ul-Adha would further strengthen peace, stability, brotherhood and communal harmony across Jammu and Kashmir.
Meanwhile, the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) and Kashmir Thunder Newspaper also extend warm Eid-ul-Adha greetings to its readers and the people of Jammu and Kashmir, praying that the auspicious occasion brings peace, prosperity, happiness and well-being to all.”—(KNO)