Nuzhat Mushtaq
Srinagar: The annual Urs of Hazrat Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom (RA), popularly known as Makhdoom Sahab or Mehboob-ul-Aalam was observed on Friday at Koh-I-Maran hill or Hari Parbat Fort in the city of Srinagar with religious fervour.
In the heart of Srinagar, the revered Makhdoom Sahib (RA) shrine was abuzz with devotion as thousands of followers gathered despite rain to celebrate the annual Urs of the venerated Sufi saint, Sultan-Ul-Arifeen Hazrat Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom Sahib (RA). The occasion, which marks the saint’s union with the divine, drew men, women, and children from far and wide, all eager to pay their respects at the sacred site.
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The previous night had seen the devotees engrossed in ‘Shab Khwani’ (nightlong prayers), a tradition that precedes the Urs, setting the tone for the spiritual festivities.
The authorities had made elaborate arrangements to ensure a smooth and peaceful experience for the devotees, who had been thronging the shrine for 12 consecutive days leading up to the main Urs day. On this day, thousands of followers, gathered at the shrine to offer special prayers, salutations, and supplications.
The Urs of Hazrat Sheikh Hamza Makhdoom (RA), celebrated on the 24th of Safar (the second month in the Islamic calendar), is a testament to the enduring legacy of the mystic, who guided countless seekers on their spiritual journeys. His teachings, which emphasize the importance of love, compassion, and self-discovery, continue to resonate with people across religious lines.
As religious scholars shed light on the saint’s teachings, the devotees were reminded of the transformative power of his message. Makhdoom Sahib’s life, which spanned over eight decades, was a testament to his unwavering dedication to spiritual pursuits. Born in Tujjar Sharif, Sopore, he spent most of his life praying at the mountain where his shrine now stands, leaving behind a legacy that has inspired generations.
The Urs celebrations, which were held throughout the Kashmir valley, saw thousands of people participating in special prayers at various locations. However, the main congregation at the Makhdoom Sahib shrine remained the focal point of the festivities, attracting devotees from far and wide. As they gathered to pay homage to the revered saint, they were reminded of the timeless wisdom of his teachings, which continue to illuminate the path to spiritual enlightenment.
