Dargah Hazratbal
Srinagar, India
- Admire the architecture
- Boat ride on Dal Lake
- Explore the serene surroundings
- Offer prayers
- Witness the relic display
Known for:
Description:
Hazratbal Shrine, located on the banks of Dal Lake in Srinagar, Kashmir, is a significant Muslim pilgrimage site. Revered for housing the Moi-e-Muqqadas (holy relic), believed to be a hair of the Prophet Muhammad, the shrine's white marble structure radiates tranquility. Its pristine beauty, coupled with the serene backdrop of the lake and surrounding mountains, creates a captivating atmosphere. The shrine's spiritual significance draws devotees from across the globe, especially during religious festivals like Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, when the relic is displayed. The shrine's architecture blends Mughal and Kashmiri styles, further enhancing its allure.
History:
The history of Hazratbal Shrine traces back to the 17th century. The Moi-e-Muqqadas, the sacred relic housed within, arrived in India with Syed Abdullah, a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. Initially kept in Bijapur, it was later brought to Kashmir. The present shrine structure was built in the 20th century, replacing an earlier wooden mosque. The shrine has witnessed periods of both peace and turmoil, including a notable incident in 1963 when the relic briefly disappeared, causing widespread unrest. Its recovery restored calm and reaffirmed the shrine's importance as a symbol of faith and unity.