SRINAGAR: Waliwar, a serene village in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, holds an enduring place in Kashmir’s spiritual and cultural history. The village, whose name translates to “the Garden of Saints,” is steeped in centuries-old Sufi traditions and revered as a sanctuary for those seeking spiritual solace.
Situated approximately 30 kilometres from Srinagar, Waliwar is home to the shrine of Hazrat Syed Baba Badrudin (RA), a revered saint who arrived in Kashmir in the entourage of Mir Mohammad Hamadani (RA) during the 14th century. Historical accounts document that this caravan, consisting of scholars, artisans, and Sufis, played a pivotal role in introducing Islamic mysticism and fostering Kashmir’s indigenous Rishi-Sufi culture.
Renowned Kashmiri historian Dr Abdul Ahad, in his writings, reflects on this transformative period: “The arrival of Syed Hamadani and his companions marked the golden age of Sufism in Kashmir. It was not just a religious awakening but a cultural and social renaissance that merged Persian mysticism with Kashmir’s indigenous spiritual ethos.”
The Origin of Waliwar
Hazrat Syed Baba Badrudin (RA), recognizing Waliwar’s serene environment as ideal for meditation and worship, chose it as his abode. Over time, this sacred land came to be known as the “dargah of 1100 saints,” reflecting the spiritual gravity of the many revered figures who settled here. The name Waliwar emerged organically, combining the Kashmiri words Wali (saint) and War (garden).
In addition to Baba Badrudin (RA), the caravan brought other prominent saints, including Syed Rahim Shah (RA), Syed Musa (RA), Haji Baba (RA), and Syed Tahir Shah (RA). Their presence established Waliwar as a spiritual nucleus, drawing seekers and Syed families to settle and enrich the area’s legacy.
The Sacred Stones of Waliwar
Waliwar is also known for its two significant stones, which carry deep spiritual meaning. One of these stones, referred to as naem in Kashmiri, is believed to have been used by the saints for crushing and preparing food or other substances. The second stone, often described as heavenly, is thought to have descended directly from the heavens. It carries a distinct imprint of fingers beneath it, is aligned toward the Qibla, and was historically used by the saints for offering prayers.
Local scholar Syed Murtaza Bukhari Al-Naqashbandi notes that the famous Sufi saint Sheikh Noor-u-Din Noorani, who named many places in Kashmir, also named this place Waliwar, further solidifying its sacred importance in the region.
The Living Legacy of Waliwar
The shrine of Syed Peer Akbar Shah Khaleefa (RA) remains a focal point for spiritual gatherings. Speaking about his family’s custodianship, Syed Aniyat Shah, the current Reshi of the shrine, shares: “Our family traces its roots to Syed Habib Shah. For generations, we have served as humble custodians of this sacred space. The shrine continues to draw devotees seeking solace, healing, and blessings. Waliwar’s message of love and spirituality transcends time.”
The significance of Waliwar extends beyond its physical shrines; it represents a confluence of faith, history, and culture.
Annual Urs and Spiritual Gatherings
Every year, on 19th and 30th June, the Urs of Hazrat Baba Badrudin (RA) is celebrated with great reverence, drawing pilgrims and spiritual seekers from across the region. On these occasions, a Seerat Conference is organized, where both local and non-local Ulema participate, sharing spiritual teachings and reflections.
The caretaker, Syed Manzoor Bukhari highlights the significance of these gatherings: “The annual Urs is a time when Waliwar truly comes alive. The Seerat Conference unites scholars and devotees in spreading the message of love, unity, and spirituality passed down by the saints.”
Infrastructure Challenges
Despite its spiritual significance, Waliwar’s infrastructure remains underdeveloped. The shrine’s night-stay quarters for pilgrims remain incomplete due to lack of funds, leaving many visitors without proper accommodation.
Local politician and opposition leader Syed Jamat Ali Shaheen of the PDP underscores the need for immediate government intervention: “Redeveloping Waliwar’s infrastructure can boost religious tourism, preserve our sacred heritage, and generate economic opportunities for locals. The incomplete quarters must be prioritized, and expanding them to a second story would accommodate the growing number of pilgrims.”
Residents have long requested the government to take notice of Waliwar’s spiritual and cultural significance. They emphasize that improved facilities, including the redevelopment of the shrine’s infrastructure and masjid, would not only accommodate pilgrims but also promote heritage tourism in the region.
The people of Waliwar remain hopeful that these sacred grounds, which have echoed with the footsteps of saints for centuries, will receive the care and attention they deserve. Until then, the village stands as a living testament to Kashmir’s rich spiritual legacy — whispering messages of peace, love, and transcendence.
Photo : Irat Bhat