Kashmir’s Timeless Prayer of Devotion and Unity
Bader Jan
In Srinagar’s historic Nowhatta, where winding lanes lead to the revered shrine of Khawaja Naqshband Sahib, a centuries-old tradition thrives, drawing thousands each year. On the 3rd of Rabi-ul-Awwal, devotees gather for Khawaja Digar—a special congregational Asr prayer that embodies Kashmir’s deep-rooted connection to the Naqshbandi Sufi order. This cherished practice, steeped in love and spiritual reverence, has recently sparked online debates, with some labeling it “un-Islamic” while others passionately defend it as a cornerstone of Kashmiri identity. To truly grasp its significance, one must delve into the Valley’s rich history, faith, and cultural legacy.
Kashmir: The Abode of Saints
Kashmir, often called the “Valley of Saints,” owes its spiritual fabric to the Sufis who shaped its society through compassion and wisdom, rather than conquest. Unlike regions where Islam spread through force, Kashmir’s embrace of the faith came through the gentle teachings of Sufi saints. Their khanqahs (spiritual centers) became hubs of learning and kindness, blending faith with everyday life. The Naqshbandi order, introduced by Khawaja Khawand Mahmood Naqshbandi, found a special place in this landscape. A revered spiritual figure, he attracted both scholars and commoners, transforming Nowhatta into a vibrant center of devotion. His son, Khawaja Moinuddin Naqshbandi, furthered this legacy, cementing the shrine’s role as a beacon of spiritual guidance.
The Essence of Khawaja Digar
The term “Khawaja Digar” reflects this heritage. “Khawaja,” a Kashmiri adaptation of the Persian “Khwaja,” is a title of respect for saints, while “Digar” refers to the Asr prayer in Persian. Thus, Khawaja Digar denotes the Asr prayer tied to Khawaja Naqshband Sahib, specifically performed during the urs (death anniversary) of Khawaja Bahauddin Naqshband, the Naqshbandi order’s spiritual founder, entombed in Bukhara. This connection to a distant saint underscores Kashmir’s profound link to the global Naqshbandi lineage.
From the 21st of Safar to the 3rd of Rabi-ul-Awwal, the shrine buzzes with activity—recitations of Qur’anic verses, naats (praises of the Prophet), and zikr (remembrance of God). The culmination is the Khawaja Digar prayer, where men and women gather in the shrine’s courtyard, united in devotion. For example, in 2024, an estimated 10,000 devotees attended, filling the complex with collective prayers and shared reverence, a testament to the tradition’s enduring appeal.
Origins of a Sacred Tradition
Historians trace Khawaja Digar’s roots to Khawaja Khawand Mahmood’s era. Initially, it may have been a simple Asr prayer during the urs, but as the Naqshbandi order grew, the gathering evolved. Before the prayer, devotees engaged in recitations and praises, creating a distinct spiritual atmosphere. Khawaja Bahauddin Naqshband’s practice of meditating from Asr to Maghrib inspired Thursday gatherings at khanqahs, where disciples recited zikr and poetry. Over time, these evolved into the structured yet heartfelt Khawaja Digar tradition. For instance, oral accounts from Srinagar’s elders describe how 18th-century gatherings at Nowhatta featured communal recitations of the Naqshbandi text “Dalail-ul-Khairat,” a practice still echoed today.
Beyond the Debate
Critics on platforms like X often argue that singling out an Asr prayer as special is unnecessary, given its status as one of Islam’s five obligatory prayers. Some posts in 2023 called it a “cultural innovation,” questioning its Islamic validity. Yet, this perspective overlooks the tradition’s deeper meaning. For devotees, Khawaja Digar is not an innovation but a homage to their spiritual lineage. It’s a moment to honor Khawaja Bahauddin and the Naqshbandi saints, whose teachings shaped Kashmiri Islam. The prayer’s significance lies in its emotional and cultural weight—devotees like 65-year-old Ghulam Nabi, a regular attendee, describe it as “a bridge to our saints and our past.”
A Unifying Force in Modern Kashmir
In today’s Kashmir, marked by political unrest and social change, Khawaja Digar remains a rare symbol of unity. It transcends divisions of age, gender, and class, bringing thousands together in shared devotion. In 2022, for instance, local reports noted how young professionals joined elderly villagers at the shrine, praying side by side. This collective act fosters a sense of community, offering solace amid modern challenges. The tradition also preserves Kashmiri cultural identity, weaving reverence for saints into daily life, much like the region’s other Sufi practices, such as the annual urs at Dastgeer Sahib in Srinagar.
A Living Legacy
Khawaja Digar is more than a prayer; it’s a testament to Kashmir’s spiritual and cultural resilience. Social media debates may reduce it to a binary of “Islamic” versus “un-Islamic,” but for Kashmiris, it’s a living narrative of faith, history, and love. The shrine at Nowhatta, adorned with green flags and echoing with recitations, stands as a reminder of the Valley’s saints and their enduring influence. As long as devotees gather each year, Khawaja Digar will thrive, untouched by criticism, radiating the light of devotion and unity.
(About the Author: Badr Jan, a seasoned HR professional with over 15 years of experience, blends his expertise in organizational leadership with a passion for social issues.)
