Delhi recently hosted an important event aimed at reviving Kashmir’s centuries-old tradition of harmony between Shaivism and Sufism. The event, titled “Reviving Sacred Syncretism: Shaivism & Sufism in Kashmir,” took place at the India International Centre and brought together scholars, spiritual leaders, politicians, and students.
Former Union Minister and scholar Dr. Karan Singh, who has a deep connection to Kashmir’s spiritual heritage, presided over the conference as the Chief Guest.
The event was organized jointly by Shri Rakesh Sapru of the National Mission for Unity & Brotherhood and Haji Syed Salman Chishty, Chairman of the Chishty Foundation, Ajmer Sharif. Their goal was to “promote peace, cultural understanding, and lasting harmony between faiths in the region.”
Speakers from various backgrounds, including Swami Sushil Goswami Maharaj, Acharya Vivek Muni, Sardar Paramjit Singh Chandok, Marazban Nariman Zaiwala, Dr. A.K. Merchant, Awami National Conference Senior Vice President Muzaffar Shah, and Kashmiri students, shared their insights. Each speaker highlighted universal values like love, non-violence, truth, and unity.
Haji Syed Salman Chishty spoke of Kashmir’s mystics, both Shaivite yogis and Sufi dervishes, as eternal symbols of love and divine remembrance. Acharya Vivek Muni emphasized the importance of dialogue rather than conversion, while Sardar Chandok noted how music can unite people beyond religious differences.
Muzaffar Shah called the conference a hopeful sign for restoring Kashmir’s composite culture. He stressed that the syncretic spirit of Shaivism and Sufism is not just history but a living tradition that needs protection from forces seeking to divide the region. He urged ongoing dialogue, cultural revival at the grassroots level, and active community engagement as the key to a peaceful and inclusive future in Jammu and Kashmir.
The event ended with a joint declaration to continue fostering interfaith dialogue, cultural exchange, and unity-focused efforts in Kashmir. Kashmiri students participating expressed their hopes for lasting peace in the Valley.
