Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, June 8: The 129th annual Urs of revered Sufi saint Mian Nizamuddin Kiyani (RA) commenced today at Baba Nagri in Wangath, in the Kangan area of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, drawing thousands of devotees from across Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the country.
The two-day spiritual gathering, held every year in the first fortnight of June, is marked by night-long prayers, sermons, and spiritual discourses. Pilgrims began arriving in large numbers, with hundreds of vehicles reaching the shrine from Rajouri, Poonch, Doda, Jammu, Udhampur, Bandipora and Anantnag. Special prayers will be offered on the concluding day, June 9.
Several devotees expressed their emotional and spiritual bond with Baba Nagri. “My father started coming here 20 years ago, and I have continued the tradition. Baba Ji’s teachings guide us to live by prayer, the Quran, and a righteous life,” one devotee said.
Sajada Nasheen of Darbar Baba Ji Sahab Larvi, Mian Altaf Ahmad, along with prominent Islamic scholars, is leading the event. The speakers are highlighting the teachings and legacy of Baba Nizamuddin Kiyani (RA), known for his message of peace, piety and the propagation of Islamic values.
The shrine management has made arrangements for food and lodging, while the local administration and police have implemented comprehensive measures to ensure the smooth conduct of the Urs.
BJP leader Ravinder Raina, who also attended the event, described Baba Nagri as a sacred spiritual destination that remains an inspiration for people from all walks of life. “Every year, lakhs of devotees come here seeking blessings. Baba Ji’s legacy is one of spiritual enlightenment, peace, and service,” he said.
He also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir, citing the recent launch of the Vande Bharat Express as a major milestone. “This rail link will boost tourism, improve connectivity and serve strategic interests,” he added.
Referring to the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, Raina said that elaborate arrangements have been reviewed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and leaders across party lines to ensure its smooth conduct.
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