- All arrangements in place: Waqf Chairperson
- Hazratbal set for grand Eid congregation
- Schools to remain closed till Friday: Govt
Srinagar: Eid-ul-Adha, the festival of sacrifice and one of the most significant occasions in the Islamic calendar, will be celebrated across Jammu and Kashmir today with religious devotion, enthusiasm, and traditional fervour. The festival marks the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah and commemorates the spirit of sacrifice, faith, and obedience associated with Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
Thousands of devotees are expected to participate in Eid congregations at major shrines and mosques across Kashmir, with the largest gathering likely to be held at the revered Hazratbal Shrine on the banks of Dal Lake.
Worshippers from different parts of the Valley are expected to assemble there to offer special prayers and listen to sermons highlighting the religious and spiritual significance of Eid-ul-Adha.
Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, Darakshan Andrabi, said all necessary arrangements had been put in place for Eid prayers at shrines and mosques across Kashmir.
Speaking after a review meeting with civil and security officials regarding Eid arrangements, Andrabi said the Waqf Board had coordinated with the administration to ensure smooth conduct of Eid prayers at mosques, shrines and Eidgahs across the Union Territory.
“All officers were called for Eid arrangements because major Eid gatherings take place at mosques, shrines and Eidgahs across J&K. Without coordination with the administration, these arrangements are impossible,” she said.
Andrabi said the largest Eid gathering in Srinagar is expected at Hazratbal, while arrangements have also been reviewed for other major shrines, including Dastgeer Sahib Shrine, Hazrat Sultan-ul-Arifeen Shrine, and Charar-e-Sharif.
“We are confident that devotees and visitors will not face any difficulty during Eid prayers. Both the Waqf and the administration have made all necessary arrangements,” she said.
Responding to concerns over disposal of sacrificial remains during Eid-ul-Adha, Andrabi said the issue had been discussed seriously with the Srinagar Municipal Corporation and appealed to people to avoid throwing animal waste on roads and public places.
“Skin, bones, heads and legs should not be thrown on roads. It spreads filth and affects the environment. People should bury such waste properly in pits or designated places,” she said.
The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) on Tuesday announced a special holiday on May 29, 2026, in view of Eid-ul-Azha celebrations across the Kashmir Division.
As per an official order issued by the Directorate, all Government and recognized private educational institutions across Kashmir Division shall remain closed on Friday, May 29, on account of the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Azha.
The order, issued under Order No. 212-DSEK of 2026 dated May 26, stated that the decision was taken after approval from the competent authority.
Eid-ul-Adha, also known as Bakri Eid, commemorates the unwavering faith of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to the command of Almighty Allah.
The festival is observed by offering special prayers and performing Qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of animals, symbolizing devotion, compassion and charity. Traditionally, the meat from the sacrifice is shared among family members, relatives and the underprivileged.
Apart from its religious significance, Eid-ul-Adha is also deeply connected with Kashmir’s social and cultural traditions. Markets across Srinagar and other districts witnessed a surge in shoppers purchasing bakery items, mutton, spices, garments and gifts ahead of the festival.
Families remained busy preparing for the celebrations, decorating homes and arranging traditional feasts.
Athar Mudasir, a resident of Hyderbeigh Pattan in Baramulla district, said Eid-ul-Adha is a time of togetherness and celebration for Kashmiri families.
“People prepare traditional dishes and spend time with relatives, neighbours, and friends. The festival is incomplete without sharing food and happiness with loved ones,” she said.
