BUDGAM — The annual Poshak Bandi ritual was performed at the shrine of Hazrat Sheikh Nooruddin Noorani (RA) at Charar-i-Sharief in Budgam on Wednesday, marking the beginning of the annual Urs celebrations of the revered Sufi saint.
According to the news agency KNO, the ritual of changing the cloth draped over the holy grave was performed by Senior Member of the J&K Waqf Board Syed Mohammad Hussain Hakani, Administrator Mohammad Amin Dar and Mutawali Ziyarat Mohammad Younis Haji.
The ritual was held in the presence of other Waqf Board officials and a large gathering of devotees.
The shrine echoed with Manqabats, Naats, prayers and slogans in praise of Hazrat Sheikh Nooruddin Noorani, popularly known as “Alamdar-e-Kashmir” and “Sheikh-ul-Aalam”.
Devotees gathered at the shrine to witness the sacred ritual and offer prayers as the annual Urs celebrations began.
Sheikh Nooruddin Noorani (RA) is among the most revered spiritual figures of Kashmir, with his teachings, poetry and message of peace deeply influencing the Valley’s spiritual and cultural traditions.
The annual Urs draws devotees from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir, who visit Charar-i-Sharief to pay their respects, offer prayers and seek blessings.
According to the programme issued by the J&K Waqf Board, Shab Khwani will be held on October 8, while the main Urs Mubarak will be observed on October 9.
The concluding Friday ceremony is scheduled for October 16.
Authorities have made arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Urs, with concerned departments directed to ensure adequate water, electricity, sanitation and transport facilities.
Necessary security arrangements have also been put in place, while the administration and police have taken measures to regulate the movement of devotees and facilitate the peaceful conduct of the annual celebrations.
