Srinagar, March 08, 2025
A Spiritual Start to the Holy Month
The historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar’s old city witnessed an overwhelming turnout yesterday as thousands of worshippers gathered to offer prayers on the first Friday of Ramadan. The grand mosque, a centuries-old symbol of faith and resilience, buzzed with devotion, marking a vibrant beginning to the sacred month of fasting and reflection.
Devotees Throng the Grand Mosque
From early morning, streams of people from across the Kashmir Valley poured into Nowhatta, the heart of Srinagar’s downtown, to participate in the congregational prayers. The sprawling courtyard of the 14th-century mosque, framed by its iconic pagoda-like spires, filled rapidly as men, women, and children came together in a shared expression of piety. Local estimates suggest the gathering swelled into the thousands, a testament to the mosque’s enduring spiritual significance.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Leads the Faithful
The Friday sermon was delivered by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the chief cleric and Hurriyat leader, who addressed the congregation on the importance of Ramadan. Emphasizing self-purification and spiritual growth, he urged the faithful to deepen their connection with Allah through prayer and acts of righteousness. “This holy month is a gift—a time to reflect, renew, and unite as a community,” Mirwaiz said, his words resonating with the sea of worshippers.
A Tradition of Unity and Devotion
The first Friday of Ramadan holds special reverence for Muslims, often drawing larger crowds than usual to mosques worldwide. At Jamia Masjid, this occasion has historically been a moment of unity, with the mosque’s vast halls and open spaces accommodating the faithful in an atmosphere charged with spirituality. Yesterday’s gathering continued this tradition, with worshippers spilling into the surrounding lanes, their prayers echoing through the crisp March air.
Smooth Arrangements Amid Large Crowds
The Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid, the body managing the mosque, worked alongside local authorities to ensure the event proceeded smoothly. Volunteers guided devotees, while traffic diversions around Nowhatta helped manage the influx of visitors. Despite the mosque’s turbulent past—marked by closures and restrictions in recent years—no disruptions were reported, allowing the focus to remain on worship and reflection.
A Symbol of Resilience
Jamia Masjid, commissioned in 1394 by Sultan Sikandar and rebuilt multiple times after devastating fires, stands as more than just a place of prayer. It has long been a cultural and political touchstone in Kashmir, weathering centuries of change. Yesterday’s massive turnout reaffirmed its role as a beating heart of the community, especially during Ramadan, when its halls become a sanctuary for collective faith.
Markets Abuzz Post-Prayers
Following the prayers, the nearby markets sprang to life as worshippers lingered to shop for Ramadan essentials. Vendors reported brisk sales of dates, sweets, and other traditional items, adding a festive hum to the day. The bustling activity underscored the blend of spirituality and daily life that characterizes the holy month in Srinagar.
Looking Ahead in Ramadan
As the first Friday concluded, the faithful left with renewed resolve to embrace the blessings of Ramadan. With Mirwaiz calling for compassion and solidarity, the gathering set a hopeful tone for the weeks ahead. For many, the day was a reminder of the strength found in community—a strength that Jamia Masjid has nurtured for over six centuries.