Anchal Srivastava
Jammu and Kashmir is emerging as the spiritual capital for all the religious devotees. Recently, Tirupati Balaji Temple of Lord Venkateshwar has been open for devotees in Jammu. Maa Sharda temple and a gurdwara were inaugurated in Teetwal, Kupwara close to the Line of Control (LoC) in March. Kheer Bhawani Mela was well organised in May. Vaishno Devi attracts devotees from all over the country throughout the year. More than three and half lakhs people went Amarnath Yatra in 2022 and there is expected to visit more than five lakh people in 2023. The action plan has been prepared for carrying out the restoration, revival, preservation and maintenance of Architecture and Heritage of religious places and heritage sites in Srinagar district such as Khan Kahi eMoula of Mir Syed Ali Hamdani (RA), Shiv Temple at Vicharanag Nowshera Srinagar, Khankaah eNaqashband Sahib (RA), Bhairav Mandir Chattabal, Zeashta Devi at Zeathyar etc. There are also plans of reviving the Martand Sun Temple of Anantnag as a pilgrimage in the near future. These are examples of the amalgamation of nature and spiritual experience.
Jammu and Kashmir has always been the flagbearer of culture and civilization. Throughout history, it has been home to various spiritual traditions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Sufism. The presence of ancient monasteries, temples, and Sufi shrines further adds to the spiritual richness of the region. These diverse spiritual practices and the associated teachings promoted inner growth, peace, and enlightenment. Although it was gravely affected by the foreign invaders, after the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, J&K seems to have returned to its older glorious traditions and cultural practices.
J&K has the potential to emerge as a significant hub of spiritual consciousness in the world. The region is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, serene landscapes, and peaceful environment, which provide an ideal setting for spiritual practices and exploration. It is said that those who will be planning to visit Vaishno Devi Shrine, Amarnath Yatra, Sharda Temple, Kheer Bhawani Temple etc. must visit Tirupati Balaji Temple.
Along with the temples, the conservation of Hajratbal Shrine and other Sufi Ziarats is also in progress in the Valley of Kashmir. Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, while presenting the first budget of J&K Union territory in the Parliament, announced the government’s intentions to develop the Sufi pilgrimage circuit. Within this proposed Sufi circuit, there are significant spiritual destinations awaiting pilgrims. One of the most prominent sites of this circuit is the Hazratbal Shrine, located en route to Sonamarg from Srinagar. This shrine holds a relic associated with Prophet Muhammad, making it a site of deep reverence and devotion. Another notable destination along the circuit is Aishmuqam, situated on the way to Pahalgam in the Anantnag district. This sacred location carries spiritual significance and serves as a place of solace and introspection for seekers.
Lastly, the shrine of Nund Rishi in Chrar-e-Sharief, situated on the way to Yusmarg, is another important site for spiritual seekers, known for its association with the revered Sufi saint. This initiative aligns with the vision of Jammu and Kashmir emerging as a prominent spiritual hub. By highlighting and preserving these spiritual sites, the government aims to attract individuals from around the world who seek the blessings of Sufi saints and aspire for spiritual healing. This will be recognizing the immense potential of religious tourism.
Apart from religious centres, Jammu and Kashmir is also the attraction of Yoga. Five decades ago, Yoga guru Dhirendra Brahmachari built a yoga ashram at Mantalai in the Udhampur district. He was the yoga guru of the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Now, the revival of the ashram initiated by Dr Jitendra Singh, State Minister of the Prime Minister Office and planning is to make this country’s biggest International Yoga Centre. By providing infrastructure and resources to support spiritual seekers, it will attract people in search of introspection, meditation, and self-realization.
The land of J&K is full of opportunities but it is also full of care. It is important to be cautious that the development of UT as a hub of spiritual consciousness should be approached with sensitivity and respect for the region’s cultural and religious diversity. With people being heterogeneous in ethos, language, religion and culture balancing tourism and development with the preservation of the region’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage is crucial to ensure sustainable growth and harmony.
By continuing to nurture its spiritual heritage, promoting interfaith dialogue, investing in infrastructure, and preserving the environment, the region can attract seekers, foster spiritual growth, and contribute to the global spiritual community. Additionally, leveraging technology can play a significant role in spreading the message of spiritual consciousness from J&K to the rest of the world. Online platforms, social media, and digital content can be utilized to share teachings, practices, and the experiences of spiritual practitioners in the region. This can create a virtual bridge, allowing people across the globe to connect with the spiritual essence of J&K.
(The writer is student of
Post Graduate Diploma in Digital Media, IIMC, Jammu).
