The Enduring Legacy of Sheikh ulAlam: Commemorating the Spiritual Icon
The annual Urs of Sheikh ulAlam (RA) in Ladhoo will be celebrated from 26 Nov to 28 Nov 2023.
ER AAUSYF IBN FAROOQ
The eminent legacy of Sheikh Noor-din, better known as ‘Alamdar-e-Kashmir’ and‘ Sheikh ulAlam’ (RA), resonates through the rich tapestry of Kashmir’s history, spirituality, and culture. A revered Kashmiri Sufi Saint, mystic, poet, and Islamic preacher, his profound influence continues to echo through time, deeply ingrained in the lore of Ladhoo, Pampore.
It is said that Sheikh ulAlam spent a significant portion of His life, precisely 12 years, in seclusion within a cave nestled in Ladhoo, a place that remains a sacred pilgrimage site today. This mystical abode bears witness to the saint’s spiritual journey, fostering historical and spiritual significance entwined with his profound teachings and life experiences.
Every year, the air in Ladhoo becomes imbued with a spirit of commemoration during the Urs of Sheikh ulAlam. This annual celebration serves as a testament to his enduring legacy, drawing devotees and pilgrims to pay homage to the revered saint. Among the remarkable relics housed within the cave, one of the wonders is the sign of his hand engraved on stone, an indelible symbol of divine grace.
What adds a unique charm to this celebration is its alignment with the culmination of the saffron season, infusing a distinctive cultural and seasonal harmony into the occasion. This convergence of spirituality and nature’s bounty enhances the allure of the Urs, creating a vibrant tapestry of traditions, spirituality, and cultural fervour.
In the upcoming commemoration, from November 26 to November 28, 2023, a series of ceremonies and rituals will be slated to honour the revered Alamdar-e-Kashmir. This year’s Urs will hold a series of sacred ceremonies and events. From the Maghrib prayer on November 25 until the Isha prayer, the atmosphere will be adorned with Khatmat-Al-Mu’azimat, NaatKhawani, and Manqabat, offering devotees moments of reflection and spiritual connection.
The Shrine Admin Committee extends a heartfelt invitation to the public to partake in these sacred festivities. The program, set amidst the serene beauty of Ladhoo, promises an immersive experience, inviting all to join in and witness the spiritual sanctity and cultural richness woven into the legacy of Sheikh ulAlam.
The Urs of Sheikh ulAlam stands not just as a celebration but as a gateway to a spiritual odyssey, inviting believers and seekers alike to immerse themselves in the timeless teachings and divine grace of this Sufi saint.
The writer is an Engineer, Educator and Volunteer. [email protected]
Kashmir Images is an English language daily newspaper published from Srinagar (J&K), India. The newspaper is one of the largest circulated English dailies of Kashmir and its hard copies reach every nook and corner of Kashmir Valley besides Jammu and Ladakh region.
