Kashmir or Kashyap Maro (abode of Kashyap Rishi) was, long ago, a lake called SATISAR. A demon named JALODBHAWA lived in the lake. Rishi Kashyap performed penance and the water of the lake was drained off via Baramulla. Secondly, the demon was killed by Sharika Mata, whose shrine is situated at CHAKRISHOR, on Hari Parbat. By Akbar the fort was later built on its top and Maharaja Gulab Singh ji built a temple of Maha Kali inside it. On the other side Makhdom Sahib Shrine is situated. Kashmir has, also, been called Rishi Bhumi, as many Rishis were born here from time to time, to preach spirituality.
“Kashmir has been the cradle of Communal amity”. This valley of flowers gave birth to several civilizations and two religions, Islam and Hinduism blossomed here together. The culture and traditions were born on the moral teachings of the great Saints, Sufis and Rishis. The change of time could not weaken them. In trying circumstances, the teachings illuminated the path and led the people out of gloom.
Lalla Ishwari, alias Lalla Ded preached love and understanding among the people. The great Sufi Saint and Nunda Reshi, alias Sheikh Nooruddin Noorani, made people realize Godly Grace. It is, also, said Nunda Reshi was led by Lalla Ishwari to spiritualism or mysticism.
The teaching of Sufis and Saints turned the region into land of peace and founded a society based on justice and equality.
There are the great traditions which led us to accede to the great ancient India, the land of great Sufi Saints. Every follower of a religion is respected and enjoys complete liberty.
We have to preserve the precious traditions and keep torch burning ever brightly.
About the editor
Professor Dr. Krishan Lal Kalla (Pandit) has to his credit several books such as “Lalla Rookh, Glorious Heritage”, “Eminent Personalities of Kashmir” among his other works. A Gold Medalist Professor Kalla was associated with University of Jammu & Kashmir and Higher Education Department of vaious Colleges of the Jammu & Kashmir State. He also did research on Indo-logical topics at Sharada Peeth Reseach Institution, Karan Nagar, Srinagar under Dr. R.K. Kaw.
Information Courtesy: Gulshan Books. From the pages of “Kashmir Heritage”