Urs of Shah-e-Hamdan (RA) observed in Tral with deep religious Fervour
Thousands gather at Khanqah Faiz Panah, Devotees participate in night-long prayers
Pulwama: The annual Urs of revered Sufi saint Hazrat Ameer-e-Kabir Mir Syed Ali Hamdani (RA), popularly known as Shah-e-Hamdan (RA), was observed with immense religious devotion and spiritual enthusiasm at Khanqah Faiz Panah in Tral area of south Kashmir, where thousands of devotees from different parts of the Valley assembled to pay homage to the saint and participate in special prayers and gatherings.
The shrine wore a festive and spiritual look as men, women and children thronged the Khanqah since early morning.
Devotees recited verses from the Holy Quran, participated in Khatm-e-Sharief, Shab Khawani, Na’at recitations and collective supplications, while religious scholars highlighted the teachings, contributions and spiritual legacy of Shah-e-Hamdan (RA).
Emotional scenes were witnessed during the congregation as devotees prayed for peace, prosperity and communal harmony in Jammu and Kashmir. Special arrangements had also been put in place by local authorities and volunteers to facilitate the smooth movement of devotees around the shrine premises.
Speaking on the occasion, several clerics described Shah-e-Hamdan (RA) as a towering spiritual reformer whose teachings continue to inspire generations across Kashmir.
“Hazrat Shah-e-Hamdan (RA) preached love, humility, brotherhood and service to humanity. His message remains relevant even today when society needs unity and compassion the most,” a local religious scholar said during the gathering.
Another devotee from Tral said the annual Urs is not merely a religious occasion but an emotional and spiritual connection for the people of Kashmir.
“We wait for this day every year. The atmosphere here gives peace to the heart and reminds us of our rich spiritual heritage,” he said.
Mir Syed Ali Hamdani (RA), a 14th-century Persian Sufi saint, scholar and preacher of the Kubrawiya order, is widely credited with spreading Islam in Kashmir through peaceful preaching, spirituality and social reform. Historical accounts suggest that he visited Kashmir several times during the 14th century and played a pivotal role in shaping the Valley’s religious, cultural and economic landscape.
He is also remembered for introducing Persian arts, crafts and traditions that became deeply embedded in Kashmiri society.
The Urs is traditionally observed across Kashmir on the 6th of Zil Hijjah, while the celebrations at Watchi in Shopian are held a day later according to local tradition.
Religious gatherings and special prayers are scheduled to continue tonight at Khanqah-e-Ola Watchi Shopian, where a large number of devotees are also expected to participate.
