The shrine of Hazrat Syed Malik Bhukhari (RA) in Nadihal is more than just a place of worship; it is a living symbol of the deep spiritual traditions of Kashmir. With its rich history, miracles, and vibrant community gatherings, it remains a beacon of hope and divine intervention for believers.
By Manzoor Akash
Located within the serene and picturesque surroundings of Nadihal, Rafiabad, lies the revered shrine of a towering Sufi figure, Hazrat Syed Malik Bhukhari (RA), affectionately known to devotees as Syed Malik Saeb. This sacred site is not merely a monument of stone but a symbol of the spiritual legacy of Syed Malik Bhukhari (RA), who is believed to have hailed from the ancient city of Bukhara, Iran. His life and teachings epitomize the deep and profound Sufi culture that flourished for centuries across the region. As a distinguished and revered disciple of the great Ameer Kabeer Mir Syed Ali Hamadani (RA), his shrine resonates with stories of spiritual enlightenment, divine guidance, and miraculous occurrences that continue to inspire countless devotees.
The sanctity of the shrine goes beyond the physical space, as it is believed to be infused with the spiritual presence of Hazrat Syed Malik Bhukhari (RA) himself, along with that of his revered disciple, Rahim Sahib. According to local legends, Rahim Sahib, who was renowned for his captivating recitations of “Na’ants,” breathed his last in Srinagar. However, through a divine dream, Hazrat Syed Malik Bhukhari (RA) is said to have received a revelation, guiding him to instruct that Rahim Sahib be laid to rest beside him, within the sacred grounds of the shrine. This act of spiritual devotion is a testament to the deep bond between the two saints and their shared mission of spreading love, unity, and spiritual wisdom.
Miracles are said to abound within these hallowed grounds, with many devotees attributing their blessings, particularly the gift of parenthood, to their pilgrimages to the shrine. Barren couples, seeking divine intervention and solace, often visit the shrine in the hope of being blessed with children through their fervent prayers. This miraculous occurrence has become a central part of the shrine’s mystique, drawing thousands of believers each year. The annual Urs, held on the 8th of Rajab, draws devotees from distant lands. This spiritual gathering culminates in a night-long vigil, filled with prayer, reflection, and devotion, as the faithful come together to honor the memory and legacy of Syed Malik Bhukhari (RA).
In addition to the Urs, the shrine continues to serve as a beacon of faith and spiritual guidance, especially on Thursdays, when devotees gather for the “Shub” prayers, starting from the evening “Maghrib” prayer until the night “Isha” prayer. The shrine’s precincts are also home to “Baitul Zaireen,” a space where devotees offer “Niyaz” throughout the year, expressing their gratitude and seeking divine blessings. This ritual, which involves the offering of food and other sacred gifts, is a testament to the deep faith and devotion of the local community.
Reflecting on the profound impact of this sacred site, I am reminded of my own personal experiences at the shrine, particularly with my mother. As a child, she would take me to the shrine to be part of the annual Urs celebrations, where the shrine’s custodians—who also run a Langer (community kitchen)—would organize a “Niyaz” (community feast). The event would draw people from surrounding villages like Syedpora, Ladura, and Chaklu, bringing together families, friends, and neighbors in an expression of unity, brotherhood, and harmony. It was a time when the community came together, rekindling the bonds that connect us all through shared faith and devotion.
An elderly and devoted disciple, Jamal Kak, who has spent many years at the shrine, shared his reflections on the changes he has witnessed over the years. “Earlier, the Langar at this shrine was always bustling with devotees who offered their obeisance every other day. The crowds were far larger,” he explained. “But now, the number of visitors has decreased significantly. It is only on Thursdays and Mondays that a good number of devotees come to visit. But it is the strong belief, or ‘Eti’qaad,’ that brings people here. However, it is clear that the once overwhelming rush of devotees has diminished over time,” Jamal Kak added with a hint of nostalgia.
One of the most sacred traditions associated with the shrine is the ritual of “Mundan” or the first haircut of a child, locally known as “Zareh Kasean.” This rite of passage, symbolizing spiritual purification, sees families bringing their children to receive the blessings of Syed Malik Bhukhari (RA). I recall my own participation in this tradition during a spring season when nearly our entire neighborhood came together to offer our obeisance at the shrine, further strengthening the bonds of community and faith.
In my quest to learn more about the life and legacy of this iconic mystic, I sought information regarding his birth and death year, but regrettably, I was unable to find any clear details. Neither the shrine’s signboard nor the Auqaf committee provided any definitive answers, leaving me with a sense of mystery surrounding this revered figure’s life.
Despite undergoing renovations and construction, the shrine continues to pulse with spiritual energy, drawing seekers of solace, guidance, and blessings. Its ongoing transformation is a metaphor for the eternal journey of faith—constantly evolving yet deeply rooted in the timeless wisdom of Sufi mysticism. The legacy of Hazrat Syed Malik Bhukhari (RA) endures through generations, with his teachings continuing to inspire truth-seekers and spiritual aspirants alike.
As the shrine continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the enduring legacy of Syed Malik Bhukhari (RA). It serves as a sanctuary of hope and spiritual refuge for all who seek solace, healing, and divine guidance. Each prayer whispered within its sacred walls, each pilgrimage made to its holy grounds, contributes to the growing aura of spirituality that envelops the site. This aura transcends earthly boundaries, weaving a tapestry of faith, devotion, and the eternal truths of the human spirit—echoing the boundless mercy of the Divine for all who come seeking peace and enlightenment.
The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of this Magazine. The author can be reached at [email protected]
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