Kashmiris offer prayers at Aali Masjid after 61 years

In occupied Kashmir, hundreds of Kashmiri devotees offered congregational prayers at the historic Aali Masjid in Srinagar after nearly 61 years. Awami Action Committee organised special prayers in the Mosque on the death anniversary of late Mirwaiz Muhammad Yousuf Shah, who used to lead the prayers till he was exiled in 1947.
From 1963 to 1975, prayers were offered on Eids led by Mirwaiz Muhammad Farooq, KMS reported. Aali Masjid is being renovated through the Tourism department in collaboration with Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH). Aali Masjid was presenting a festive look after decades and Kashmiri men and women were praying with enthusiasm under the lofty Chinars. The Mosque was constructed by Kashmiri ruler, Sultan Hassan
Shah, in 15th century. It got burnt down during Afghan rule in 18th century before being rebuilt by the Afghan governor Abdullah Khan. The Masjid served as a major platform for the freedom struggle during the domineering Dogra rule in early 20th century. The Chairman of All Parties Hurriyet Conference (APHC), Mirwaiz Umar Farooq inaugurated Aali Masjid at Eidgah after its renovation. The Hurriyet leaders, Maulana Abbas Ansari, Zaffar Akbar Butt, Hakeem Abdul Rashid, Muhammad Yousuf Naqash were also present on the occasion.