Nund Rishi (RA) as sufi saint

 

Nund Rishi (RA), the founder of local Sufi order called the Rishi order. He (RA) won the hearts of Kashmiris by their integrity, virtue, simplicity and poetry. He (RA) also plays a magnificent role in preaching and delivering the message of truth and brotherhood.

Kashmir proves a suitable field for local Sufi Saints such as Zain-din-wali, Lal Arifa, Mukhdom Sheikh Hamza (RA). Sheikh noor-din-norani (RA) being a close disciple of Lal Arifa, plays a  pivotal role in inculcation of spiritual knowledge.He is   known as  Alamdari Kashmir (The flag bearer of Kashmir) and Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA)(The teacher of the world).

Sheikh noor-din (RA) is famous for his poetry and Islamic preaching. His poetry was used as a tool to spread the knowledge of absolute. His poetry is commonly called Shruks. The main subject of his poetry was Tawheed,Risalat and humanity. He categorically criticized the so-called Mulla's and other pseudo scholars. Sheikh-noor-din-noorani (RA) is also credited with translating the Quran in Kashmiri language. The teaching of Nund Rishi (RA) encourages unity, purity and safeguard the environment. He emphasis for importance of and conservation of living beings. His famous message regarding the conservation of natural resources in Kashmiri dialect; An poshi teli yeli Wonn poshi meaning Food will last as long as Forest lasts.

His teaching was preserved in Nur-nama. There are two prominent disciples of Nund Rishi (RA); Baba Bam-ud-din (RA), and Baba zain-ud-din (RA) both are of Hindu origin. Thousands of people embraced the teaching of Nund Rishi (RA) and became his true followers. He travelled village to village and spread the message of unity of God.

Barooj Ashraf (M.Sc. Student)

                                                                                                                Faculty of Forestry, SKUAST-K