Aqzar Raheel
GANDERBAL: In a profound display of faith and devotion, thousands of devotees thronged the revered Baba Nagri shrine in Wangat, Kangan, to commemorate the 129th Urs of Hazrat Baba Nizam-ud-Din Kiyanvi (RA). The two-day spiritual gathering, which began on June 8, culminated on Monday with a deeply moving joint prayer, resonating with appeals for peace, unity, and divine mercy.
Pilgrims from across Jammu and Kashmir—including Poonch, Rajouri, Doda, Shopian, Baramulla, Bandipora, Kathua, and the host district Ganderbal—arrived in droves. While some traveled in caravans and buses, others undertook long journeys on foot, exemplifying their unwavering devotion to the revered Sufi saint whose teachings continue to inspire generations.
The Urs began with Quran Khawani, Darood Azkaar, and Khatmat-ul-Mozama, followed by a spiritually charged Shab Khawani that lasted through the night. The concluding day witnessed an emotional mass prayer, as thousands of hands rose together in supplication under the open sky.
A devotee from Rajouri remarked, “We’ve been coming here since childhood. No matter the distance or hardship, the peace we find here always draws us back.” Another added, “This place renews our spirit. It feels like returning home—to faith, to humility, to peace.”
As per tradition, offerings were made by the devotees—not just in the form of monetary donations, but also livestock such as sheep and cattle, along with staple food items like maize, rice, and pulses—symbolizing gratitude and devotion.
The event was graced by several religious leaders, including Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmad, who paid tribute to the saint’s enduring legacy and also remembered his late father, Mian Bashir Ahmad. In his address, Mian Altaf urged people to internalize the values of humility, piety, and compassion that defined the lives of both saints.
If we embrace the values taught by saints like Baba Nizam-ud-Din (RA), we not only strengthen our own character but also contribute to communal harmony,” MP Mian Altaf said.
Religious scholars and Islamic clerics also addressed the gathering, emphasizing Baba Nizam-ud-Din’s (RA) service to humanity and his role as a guiding spiritual force in Kashmir.
As the Urs continues to grow each year—both in sanctity and scale—Baba Nagri remains a shining beacon of spiritual unity, where devotion knows no bounds, and faith continues to bridge distances and hearts alike.
