Thousands gather for 606th Urs of Hazrat Syed Janbaz Wali (RA) in Baramulla

Baramulla, Oct 04: The 606th Urs of Hazrat Syed Janbaz Wali (RA) drew thousands of admirers and devotees to the revered shrine. The display of holy relics, known as “Tubrookat”, took place after each of the five daily prayers, attracting individuals of all ages from various parts of the valley who came to pay their respects.
The “Shab” prayers were held on the night of 24 Rabi Ul Awal in memory of the mystic, with heartfelt prayers for peace and prosperity in the Muslim world.
The Urs was marked by fervent devotion, with attendees travelling from distant locations. On Friday, the relics of the mystic, including the “Kula”, an Islamic turban, and “Kangi”, a hair comb, were showcased before thousands of devotees after each prayer, from Fajr to Isha. Other Tubrookats belonging to the Sufi saint are securely housed at the shrine. The celebration showcased the unwavering devotion and legacy of the locals.
“People from Baramulla and many areas across Kashmir—such as Uri and Srinagar—flock to the shrine for this occasion. We welcome each and every one of them. In the past, people of all religions were welcomed and served the famous ‘Langer’ food by the caretakers of the shrine,” said Khursheed Ahmad Shah, a prominent caretaker and author of two booklets on the life of Janbaz Wali. “On the night of the prayers, special meal arrangements were made. We enthusiastically perform our duties, just as our ancestors did, to honour the memory of this great Sufi Saint.”
Syed Janbaz Wali is believed to have arrived in the Kashmir valley more than 600 years ago, in 827 AH (1420 AD), during the reign of Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin. He travelled from Iran with a group of 120 saints and scholars, reaching Srinagar via Shopian. He later settled on the western side of Baramulla town, founding a village named “Khawanpora” (Khanpora), meaning a place of food. Syed dedicated his life to preaching the Quran and Hadith, attracting thousands of followers due to his direct lineage to Prophet Mohammad (SAW). Syed Janbaz Wali departed this world on 24 Rabi Ul Awal 840 AH (1433 AD).
The Urs is celebrated annually on the Friday following 24 Rabi Ul Awal, and the holy shrine is considered one of the oldest and most significant in the Kashmir valley. The shrine is maintained by numerous families and the authorities of the Khanpora, who uphold the love for Islam and the legacy of Janbaz Wali. This day is particularly meaningful for locals and admirers who visit the shrine each year with great reverence, to offer prayers, reunite with loved ones, and witness the holy relics.