Thousands flock to Sufi shrine in IIOJK’s Ganderbal for Urs celebrations
Srinagar: The revered Baba Nagri shrine in Ganderbal district of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a massive gathering of devotees on the 128th annual Urs of Sufi saint, Bab Jee Sahib Larvi Naqashbandi, today.
According to Kashmir Media Service, over 100,000 devotees from across IIOJK and beyond thronged the shrine, situated in Wangat village, 45 km from Srinagar city.
Baba Jee Sahib Larvi Naqashbandi, an 18th-century social reformer and Sufi saint, is the patron saint of the Gujjar/Bakarwal community. His teachings of love, compassion, and spiritual growth continue to inspire devotees from all walks of life.
The annual Urs celebrations, which began, today, feature recitation of the holy Quran, prayers, and religious teachings. Devotees offer floral tributes, lighting candles and incense sticks, and seek the saint’s blessings. The shrine remains open throughout the night, allowing devotees to pay their respects and seek solace.
This year’s celebrations saw devotees from Poonch, Rajouri, Mendhar, Surankote, Kalakote, Pahalgam, Babdipora, Kokernag, Kulgam, and even from outside the territory, gathered at the shrine. The atmosphere was filled with devotion, peace, and harmony, as people from different backgrounds came together to celebrate the saint’s legacy.
Baba Jee Sahib originally belonged to Balakote area of Pakistan. About 128 years ago, he came to Wangat and remained in prayer for many years till his fame travelled far and wide. Devotees have since been coming to the shrine with devotional offerings.
