Massive gathering of Gujjar and nomadic devotees; NC MP Mian Altaf Ahmad leads annual observance
Diplomat Correspondent
Kangan, (DD)The 129th Urs of the revered Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Kiyanvi (RA) was observed with deep devotion and spiritual fervour at Baba Nagri in the Kangan area of Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district. Thousands of devotees, particularly from the Gujjar and nomadic communities, converged at the shrine to pay homage and seek blessings.
The event was led by Member of Parliament and National Conference leader Mian Altaf Ahmad, who is also the Sajjada Nasheen of Baba Nagri. Under his guidance, the day witnessed special congregational prayers, soulful Naat and Manqabat recitations, and spiritual discourses emphasising the saint’s timeless teachings of peace, humility, and divine love.
Devotees expressed strong emotional and spiritual ties to the shrine and the saint.
“We come here every year with our families and livestock. Baba Ji is our protector—we believe his blessings guide us through all hardships,” said Abdul Gani, a nomadic herder from Rajouri.
“This is not just a spiritual event; it’s a gathering of unity, faith, and cultural pride for Gujjars and Bakarwals,” said Shakeela Begum from Reasi, who attended the Urs with her extended family.
Mian Altaf Ahmad, addressing the gathering, urged devotees to follow the path of righteousness and communal harmony exemplified by Hazrat Nizamuddin Kiyanvi (RA). He also reiterated the commitment of Baba Nagri’s management to continue serving the spiritual and social needs of the region’s tribal population.
The Urs drew people from across Jammu and Kashmir, including Poonch, Rajouri, Doda, Anantnag, Baramulla, and Shopian, turning the serene hamlet of Baba Nagri into a spiritual hub for the day.
Local authorities made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Urs, including security, transport, sanitation, and medical care.
The annual commemoration continues to strengthen the spiritual heritage of Kashmir and reaffirm the unbreakable bond between Sufi traditions and the region’s tribal communities(DD)
