Srinagar, Feb 4: The night-long prayers at mosques and shrines marked the observance of Shab-e-Baraat across Jammu and Kashmir.

Shab-e-Baraat (the night of salvation) is observed on the 15th night of the Islamic month of Shabaan and two weeks before the onset of the holy fasting month of Ramzan. The night holds deep religious significance for Muslims, who believe it to be a time for seeking forgiveness and blessings.
According to a tradition though not believed by all Muslims, Allah determines the fate of all people for the coming year during the night of Shab-e-Baraat only.
In Kashmir, the main religious congregations were held at the Hazratbal shrine, located on the banks of Dal Lake, which houses the holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The devotees offered prayers throughout the night at Hazratbal.
In mosques and shrines across the valley and Jammu, the devotees along with special prayers and supplications prayed for the forgiveness of deceased family members. At several places locals were seen visiting graveyards to offer prayers for their departed loved ones.