Today, July 27, in Srinagar, India, the National Convention on “Sufism: A Bridge Between Communities” was held. Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha was in attendance.
The Cluster University of Srinagar and the J&K Academy of Arts, Culture, and Languages put on a conference, and the Governor of Kerala, Sh Arif Mohammed Khan, presided over the event.
In his speech, Kerala’s Governor Sh Arif Mohammed Khan honoured the efforts of Lal Ded, Nund Rishi, and other Sufis and Saints from Jammu and Kashmir who worked to foster a sense of communal solidarity.
The Governor of Kerala said that their works and teachings will forever serve as an inspiration to the world.
Ancient wisdom instills in us a desire for harmony, compassion, and tolerance. Humanity transcends religious and ideological boundaries. He went on to say that India’s greatest strength lies in the preservation of its rich cultural heritage.
The Lt. Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, spoke at the event and discussed the impact of Sufism on the region’s history and culture.
True Sufism is characterised by a universally harmonious interaction between all religious groups, people, and all of life. The Lieutenant Governor made the observation that “it is a way of life that promotes and propagates ideals of communal harmony, love, and peace among the people.”
Rishis and Sufis both call J&K home. It’s a place where people of all faiths and spiritual persuasions are welcome. Supporters of terrorism and separatism have been neutralised, and those who wreaked havoc in this utopia have been eradicated, the Lt. Governor said.
The UT of J&K has been on a road towards peace, prosperity, and inclusive development, which the Lt Governor discussed at the Convention.
In the past, a small group of individuals with entrenched interests would often call for shutdowns in the valley, but the average person would always end up paying the price. He stated that such times are over today.
“Peace is prevailing, nightlife has returned, and people are living freely,” he continued.
The Lt. Governor said that today was especially significant since it was the first time in more than 30 years that a Muharram parade was held without incident in Srinagar.
The Lt. Governor thanked the Hon’ble Governor of Kerala for attending and sharing his knowledge with the audience.
He applauded the efforts of the J&K Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages and the Cluster University of Srinagar to spread awareness of the Sufi traditions.
He also encouraged individuals to enhance their bonds of community by adopting Rishi-Sufi practises.
Cluster University of Srinagar Vice Chancellor and Provost Professor Qayyum Husain provided a comprehensive review of the Convention.
The event was attended by many notable people, including the Advisor to the Lt. Governor, Sh. Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, the Padma Shri Dr. SP Varma, the Vice Chancellors of many universities, high-ranking officials of the UT government, famous residents, and thousands of students.
