Iqbal Wani
In a remarkable display of unity and resilience, the town of Charar-i-Sharief in Jammu and Kashmir, India, embraced the practice of yoga on the occasion of World Yoga Day 2023. The renowned Sufi shrine and mosque, which suffered a devastating fire in 1995, served as the backdrop for this beautiful spectacle of spiritual healing.
The historic Charar-i-Sharief, built in 1460 to honor the revered Kashmiri Sufi saint Nund Rishi, holds immense cultural and religious significance for both Muslims and Hindus in the region. Despite its painful history of destruction and displacement caused by extremist elements, the people of Charar-i-Sharief chose to embrace positivity and unity through the practice of yoga.
However, some voices have raised objections, questioning the appropriateness of performing yoga at the shrine. Critics, including prominent politicians like Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, who have remained silent on the past destruction caused by extremist elements, expressed their disapproval. It is important to note that yoga has been endorsed by Islamic nations such as Saudi Arabia and even neighboring Pakistan, as a beneficial practice for physical and mental well-being.
The yoga session, organized by the Army in collaboration with the administration, aimed to promote holistic well-being among school students. The event took place on the lawns of the shrine of another revered Sufi saint, Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani, also known as Sheikh-Ul-Alam and Alamdar-e-Kashmir, at Charar-i-Sharief.
While critics may have their reservations, the majority believes that the practice of yoga can play a vital role in healing the wounds inflicted by the past and fostering a positive outlook for the future. Yoga has been proven to offer numerous physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits, helping individuals master their minds and manage their emotions in a healthy manner.
The people of Charar-i-Sharief have shown immense strength and resilience in embracing the positive aspects of life, leaving behind the negativity of the past. By practicing yoga and focusing on personal growth and well-being, they strive to rebuild their town and restore its cultural heritage.
It is time for all to set aside old grievances and promote harmony, understanding, and positivity. By embracing practices like yoga, which create beautiful spectacles of unity and healing, communities can move forward together towards a brighter future.
- The writer can be reached at iqballg@gmail.com
