Srinagar, Mar 01: Because the crescent moon marks the arrival of the holy month of Ramazan, Kashmir valley transforms into a conventional and harmonious mix, exhilarating the ambiance with an aroma of spirituality and unity. The streets of Kashmir mirror the age-old customs and modern practices, creating a singular ambiance of cultural, spiritual, and conventional fervour throughout the valley.
Ramazan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a interval of fasting, prayer, and self-discipline for Muslims worldwide. In Kashmir, the month holds particular significance as individuals interact in prolonged prayers, recitation of the Quran, and acts of charity. Mosques, together with the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar and Hazratbal Shrine, witness a surge in worshippers who attend Taraweeh (particular night time prayers).
“The ambiance throughout Ramazan is indescribable. There’s a sense of peace and devotion within the air. The nights are stuffed with prayers, and the times are spent in fasting and reflection,” stated Waheed Rouf, a resident of Srinagar.
From the centuries-old SeherKhwan, marking the pre-dawn name to wakefulness, to the breaking of fasts amidst giant gatherings, and the congregation for Taraweeh prayers, Ramadan in Kashmir is noticed with deep reverence and enthusiasm. Households collect for pre-dawn meals (Suhoor), fostering unity as the young and old come collectively to eat, pray, and strengthen familial bonds.
One of the divine points of Ramazan in Kashmir is the custom of Taraweeh prayers. Because the solar units behind the majestic mountains, mosques throughout the valley resonate with the melodious recitation of the Quran. The devoted congregate for these particular prayers, searching for religious enlightenment and solace within the tranquility of the night time.
The ambiance throughout Ramazan is indescribable. A way of peace and devotion prevails throughout this month. The nights are stuffed with prayers, and the times are spent in fasting,” stated Abdul Ahad, a resident of Srinagar.
Throughout Ramazan Kashmir valley is abuzz with a profound marketplace for dates which are imported from gulf international locations and consumed in giant portions in Kashmir.
Ramazan is a time for giving, and in Kashmir, charitable initiatives and group kitchens have additionally sprung up making certain that nobody goes hungry throughout this sacred month. Volunteers at completely different locations, together with hospitals are working tirelessly to distribute meals to the needy embodying the spirit of compassion that’s synonymous with the month of Ramazan.
Mohammad Iliyas, a volunteer at an area charity reveals that Ramazan represents a time of giving again to the group. “The enjoyment of serving to others, particularly throughout Ramazan, is unparalleled. It’s not nearly meals, it’s about exhibiting love and solidarity with these in want. We go away each morning on the time of Suhoor and distribute meals among the many individuals in mosques or hospitals or streets. Equally on the time of Iftar additionally we do the identical”, he stated.
Regardless of the transformation and adaptation to fashionable occasions, younger Kashmiris really feel deeply rooted of their cultural heritage whereas embracing new practices that resonate with the spirit of inclusivity and compassion.
“We nonetheless cherish the traditions handed down via generations, however we additionally consider in extending kindness past our group. Ramazan is a time for reflection and empathy,” Mujtaba, an area, stated.
