Jammu & Kashmir is blessed with many holy destinations & one of them is Hazratbal Shrine. Depending on the geographical location and standout highlights, the town and cities of the State are famously known as The City of Temples (Jammu) and The City of Lakes (Srinagar). The land has, since ages, maintained its repertoire as the Paradise on Earth. If not for its heavenly view, the next thing that people know of this enchanting Valley is that it is the land of pilgrimage. Since time immemorial, the Vale has been referred to as ‘Pir-i-Wair’ (the Valley of Saints). Over time, diverse faiths, beliefs, traditions & cultures converged to maintain the peace, prosperity, and socio-religious worldview of Kashmir.
One such religious site of greater importance is the Hazratbal Shrine. Situated on the western bank of Dal Lake, the mosque is made of white marble and is adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy. Calligraphy is valued for its aesthetic qualities and is used to inscribe the names of God, the Prophet Muhammad, and other Islamic figures, which serves as a reminder of their importance and teachings. In mosques, calligraphy is typically used to decorate the walls and ceilings. Hazratbal shrine, one of the most sacred Islamic sites, houses the Prophet’s relic. As such, the shrine is the most visited place in Srinagar.
Significance of Hazratbal Shrine
From a religious and cultural perspective, Hazratbal Shrine holds enormous value. It is believed that the hair of the Prophet Muhammad, known as Moi-e-Muqaddas, is kept in the shrine. This sacred object is regarded as a relic of great reverence and significance. It is believed Syed Abdullah, a descendant of Prophet Muhammad, brought this sacred relic to India. The holy hair is displayed on special occasions, especially on the Prophet’s birthday.
The presence of this relic is of paramount importance. Muslims from all over the region, visit the mosque to offer prayers and ask for blessings, and the relic is also believed to have magical and healing powers. Offering prayers when the relic is present is a source of infinite blessings and spiritual strength. Besides, the shrine is also renowned for its exquisite architecture and ornamentation. White marble was used to construct the main prayer hall, which was ornately carved and calligraphed. In addition, the shrine features a library and a museum with a collection of Islamic artefacts and manuscripts.
How to reach:
Hazratbal shrine is located on the western shore of Dal Lake and is close to Naseem Bagh. You can reach there via Shikara ride or road. Before visiting the shrine, dress modestly and remove your shoes outside the mosque. Witness the traditional rituals performed while getting ready to offer prayers. To have a secluded time visiting the place, avoid visiting the mosque on Fridays because it is packed for the Jumma Namaz (Friday prayers).
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