IGP Kashmir reviews security arrangements; devotees recall saint’s message of peace, humility and humanity
Srinagar, Oct 9: Thousands of devotees gathered at the revered shrine of Sheikh Nooruddin Noorani (RA), popularly known as Sheikh-ul-Aalam and Alamdar-e-Kashmir, at Charar-e-Sharief in central Kashmir’s Budgam district on Friday to observe the annual Urs of the revered Sufi saint.
Men, women and children from different parts of Kashmir visited the shrine to offer prayers and pay homage to the saint, whose teachings of simplicity, truthfulness, compassion, justice and service to humanity continue to hold deep significance in the Valley.
The annual Urs is an important event in Kashmir’s spiritual calendar, bringing together devotees who seek blessings and reflect on the saint’s enduring spiritual and cultural legacy.
The three-day observance began on Wednesday with Poshakbandi, the ceremonial dressing of the shrine, followed by Shab Khawani on Thursday, when devotees participated in night-long prayers and supplications for peace, prosperity and the well-being of the people of Kashmir.
Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir, Sujit Kumar, visited the shrine and reviewed security arrangements in view of the large congregation.
Speaking to reporters, the IGP said comprehensive security measures had been put in place to ensure the safety of devotees and the smooth conduct of the religious gathering. Arrangements had also been made to facilitate the movement of pilgrims and minimise inconvenience, he said.
The Budgam district administration made arrangements for the congregation, including medical facilities, traffic management and security deployment. Local volunteers also assisted the authorities in managing the gathering.
For devotees, the Urs is not merely a religious observance but also an opportunity to reconnect with the teachings of Sheikh-ul-Aalam and reflect on the values he propagated.
“The moment I arrived here at night, I saw a man crying. It was a deeply moving sight that reflected the emotions and devotion people bring with them to this sacred place,” a devotee said.
Another devotee said the annual gathering served as a reminder of the saint’s timeless message of humanity and spiritual harmony.
“People come here with different prayers and hopes, but Sheikh-ul-Aalam’s teachings remind us all of the importance of humility, compassion and living in peace with one another,” the devotee said.
Sheikh Nooruddin Noorani (RA), one of Kashmir’s most revered spiritual figures, occupies a prominent place in the region’s religious and cultural history. His poetry and teachings emphasised devotion, ethical living, simplicity and harmony, influencing generations across the Valley.
The annual Urs at Charar-e-Sharief remains a cherished tradition, drawing devotees from across Kashmir to honour the saint’s legacy and renew their commitment to his message of peace, compassion and service to humanity.
