Charari-i-Sharief Shrine, also known as Charar-e-Sharif or Hazrat Sheikh Nooruddin Wali, is a revered spiritual destination located in Charari Sharief town, approximately 30 kilometers from Srinagar in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. This shrine holds immense religious and historical significance for the local Muslim community.
The Charari-i-Sharief Shrine is dedicated to the revered Sufi saint, Hazrat Sheikh Nooruddin Noorani, popularly known as Sheikh ul-Alam. He was a 14th-century mystic and poet, who played a crucial role in spreading the teachings of Islam and Sufism in Kashmir. Sheikh ul-Alam is highly revered for his spiritual wisdom, devotion to God, and teachings of peace and harmony.
The shrine is an architectural marvel, with its distinctive wooden structure adorned with intricate carvings and traditional Kashmiri craftsmanship. It stands as a symbol of the rich cultural heritage and religious tolerance in the region. The main prayer hall or Ziyarat is the focal point of the shrine, where devotees gather to offer prayers and seek blessings.
One of the most notable features of the Charari-i-Sharief Shrine is its eternal flame, known as “Deeva-e-Sharief.” It is said that the flame has been burning continuously for several centuries, and it represents the divine presence and blessings of Sheikh ul-Alam.
The annual Urs (death anniversary) of Sheikh ul-Alam is a significant event celebrated at the Charari-i-Sharief Shrine. Devotees from different parts of Kashmir and beyond gather to pay their respects, offer prayers, recite verses from Sheikh ul-Alam’s poetry, and seek spiritual enlightenment. The atmosphere during the Urs is filled with devotion, religious fervor, and a sense of unity among the followers of Sheikh ul-Alam.
The Charari-i-Sharief Shrine has also witnessed its fair share of challenges and historical events. In 1995, the shrine was tragically destroyed in a devastating fire caused by armed militants. This event deeply saddened the Kashmiri community, as the shrine held immense cultural, religious, and historical significance. However, the shrine was rebuilt and restored with the support of the local community and devotees, emphasizing its resilience and importance.
Today, the Charari-i-Sharief Shrine continues to be a cherished spiritual destination for people of all faiths. It serves as a place of solace, spiritual guidance, and communal harmony. Visitors to the shrine are captivated by its serene ambiance, the fragrance of incense, the rhythmic recitation of prayers, and the peaceful surroundings.
A visit to the Charari-i-Sharief Shrine provides an opportunity to delve into the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of Kashmir. It offers a glimpse into the teachings of Sheikh ul-Alam and the enduring legacy of Sufism in the region. The shrine stands as a symbol of peace, tolerance, and the timeless quest for spiritual enlightenment.