Baramulla: Thousands of devotees from Baramulla and other parts of Kashmir gathered at Khanpora on Friday to observe the 608th Urs Mubarak of Hazrat Syed Muhammad Janbaz Wali (RA), one of Kashmir’s revered Sufi saints, with religious fervour and devotion.
Men, women and children thronged the shrine throughout the day to offer prayers, pay obeisance and seek blessings. Devotees also had the opportunity to view the sacred Tabarrukat associated with the saint.
Religious programmes including Khatm-e-Muzumaat, Wazaif, Zikr-o-Azkar, Durood Khwani and Naat Khwani were held, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere at the shrine.
The shrine complex and surrounding areas were illuminated with decorative lights and traditional “Zool” bulbs, adding to the festive ambience of the annual congregation.
Amid the large gathering, devotees renewed their long-pending demand for a local holiday in Baramulla district, or at least in Baramulla and Narvaw tehsils, on the occasion of the Urs.
They argued that the shrine holds immense religious and cultural significance and attracts thousands of devotees every year, warranting official recognition similar to local holidays granted for other major religious and traditional events across Jammu and Kashmir.
“A local holiday would allow devotees, students and employees to participate fully in the Urs and its religious observances,” several devotees said.
Speaking on the occasion, Mutawalli Dargah Khursheed Ahmad Shah thanked devotees for participating in large numbers and maintaining peace and discipline.
“We are celebrating the Urs of Hazrat Syed Janbaz Wali (RA) with great devotion. Thousands of devotees from different parts of Kashmir visit this sacred shrine to seek blessings and pray for peace and prosperity,” he said.
Shah also appreciated the support extended by the J&K Waqf Board, police and civil administration in ensuring smooth arrangements for devotees.
Authorities made arrangements for transport, drinking water, electricity and sanitation, while police personnel regulated the movement of devotees around the shrine.
The historic shrine is currently undergoing reconstruction and development under the J&K Waqf Board, a move devotees believe will enhance facilities and accommodate the growing number of pilgrims visiting the revered site each year.
