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Journalism of Courage
Shrines of Amity
Jammu, the 8220;city of temples8221;, could also be called the city of secular shrines, specially when the very foundation of the city is secularism, peace and the spirit of co-existence.
With different religions flourishing in this land simultaneously, Jammu is a unique example of secularism and the people of this city have maintained secular traditions in spite of stresses and strains. The region is dotted with a large number of shrines which are visited by people of all faiths and sects. It is inspiring to find devotees from one community flocking to the shrines of other faiths, and vice-versa.
One among such shrines is the tomb of Pir Wudan Sha at Satwari adjoining the Jammu airport. People throng the shrine on Thursdays to offer prayers. They tie mannat thread at the shrine and when their wishes are fulfilled, they visit it again to untie the thread. It is believed that Guru Nanak Dev Ji once visited Pir Wudan Shah. The four-centuries-old shrine is known as Satwari Wale Pir. It is interesting to note that Hindus and Sikhs outnumber Muslims at this shrine.
The tomb of Pir Roshan Shah Wali, near the town hall in the heart of city, is another highly revered shrine. A 14th century structure, this tomb is visited by a large number of people irrespective of their caste and creed. It is believed that Pir Roshan Shah Wali came to this place with a message of love and peace and was able to attract a large number of followers. Since he was very tall man, he is fondly remembered as Naugaza having a height of nine yards. Devotes believe that by praying here, their wishes will come true.
A veritable symbol of secularism, Shahdara Sharief is a venerated shrine about 180 km from Jammu. Devotees apart, all the past rulers of the region and the state have held this shrine in high esteem since it received patronage from Maharaja Gulab Singh. The Maharaja, who is not only known as the founder of Jammu and Kashmir but also for his triumph over Ladakh, has to his credit the annexation of Kashmir when he purchased it from the British in 1842.
In the early 19th century, when Gulab Singh was a sepoy, a saint had predicted that one day he would be the king of this state. After Gulab Singh ascended the throne, he built this shrine and allocated some land around the shrine for providing free accommodation, food and other facilities. The food is served free to all the pilgrims according to their choice. Thousands of Hindus, Sikhs besides Muslims visit Shahdara Sharief with faith and devotion.
Shiv Khouri, situated near Katra, is another secular shrine. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this shrine was discovered by a Muslim shepherd who later informed about this cave shrine to his Hindu brethren. Not only this, the Peer Mitha shrine in the heart of the walled city and Panj Pir on the outskirts are among dozens of such shrines which attract the faithful from near and far.
Apart from these shrines, the famous holy cave of Amarnath in south Kashmir was also discovered by a Muslim belonging to the Malik sect. And more interestingly, a part of the offerings made in the holy cave by the devotees still goes to the successors of that family, which is a unique example of secularism.
