Aqzar Raheel
Ganderbal Jan 19: The annual Urs of revered Sufi saint Sheikh Jamal U Din (RA) was observed with religious devotion at Sehipora Wayil in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district on Monday.
Thousands of devotees, cutting across religious and social backgrounds, gathered at the shrine from various parts of the Valley and adjoining areas to participate in the congregation.
Sheikh Jamal U Din (RA), a prominent Sufi figure in Kashmir, is remembered for his spiritual teachings centred on love, humility and universal brotherhood. His message of harmony and compassion continues to shape the region’s cultural and spiritual ethos.
The Urs, traditionally observed on the 29th of Rabi-us-Sani, commenced with Quran Khawani, Darood Azkar and Khatm-e-Moazzam, followed by day-long prayers. Devotees offered special supplications seeking peace, stability and prosperity for the region. Dua-e-Majlis and Fateha Khawani were also performed.
“We come here every year to seek peace and spiritual strength. The teachings of Sheikh Jamal U Din continue to guide us towards compassion and unity,” said Ghulam Mohammad, a devotee from Ganderbal.
Another devotee, Abdul Rashid from Bandipora, said the shrine represented communal harmony. “People from different backgrounds gather here with a common purpose of prayer and brotherhood. Such gatherings strengthen social bonding and mutual respect,” he said.
A local resident of Sehipora Wayil, Ghulam Rasool, said the Urs also strengthens community ties. “The annual gathering brings villagers together and promotes cooperation and hospitality. It reflects our shared cultural heritage and respect for spiritual traditions,” he said.
A woman worshipper, Aasiya Begum from kangan, said the Urs offers spiritual solace and hope. “Coming here gives inner peace and strengthens faith. I pray for harmony, good health and a better future for our children,” she said.
An elderly devotee, 72-year-old Gulam Mohammad, said he has been attending the Urs for decades. “I have witnessed generations coming here with faith and humility. Such gatherings remind us of our shared values and the importance of peace and brotherhood in society,” he said.
The gathering reaffirmed Kashmir’s long-standing Sufi tradition, which continues to foster interfaith harmony, cultural cohesion and spiritual values among the people.
The Urs concluded with collective prayers for peace, communal harmony and well-being.
