Nayeema Ahmad Mahjoor Calls for Preserving Kashmir’s Sufi Heritage, Language and Cultural Identity

Srinagar: Veteran broadcaster and senior journalist Nayeema Ahmad Mahjoor has called for greater efforts to preserve and promote Kashmir’s rich spiritual, cultural and linguistic heritage, saying the Valley’s centuries-old Sufi traditions remain central to its identity and global recognition. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Speaking to the Kashmir News Service (KNS), Mahjoor said Kashmir’s spiritual legacy was shaped by the great saints and Sufis who brought religious guidance, culture and values to the region.

“Whatever we have today, whether spiritual or religious, is because of them. Whenever I come to Kashmir, I visit these holy places to pay my respect and gratitude. If not for these great saints, we would not be where we are today,” she said.

Calls for Protection of Spiritual Heritage

Mahjoor stressed the importance of protecting Kashmir’s historic shrines and religious sites, urging both the government and the public to take responsibility for preserving them.

She said these places represent a priceless heritage that should be safeguarded for future generations.

“We should take good care of these holy places ourselves, and the government should also play its part. We must protect this treasure and tell the world how rich our legacy is,” she said.

She added that Kashmir’s unique spiritual landscape is unmatched and deserves greater international recognition.

Strong Cultural Links with the Middle East

Having travelled to countries including Syria, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Afghanistan, Mahjoor said she has witnessed the deep historical and spiritual links between Kashmir and the Middle East.

According to her, many of the saints who came to Kashmir are also highly respected in those countries, creating a strong cultural connection.

“When people from the Middle East visit Kashmir, they say they feel a strong sense of familiarity. There is a deep cultural and religious connection,” she said.

Promoting Kashmir Through Social Media

Mahjoor encouraged greater use of social media and digital platforms to showcase Kashmir’s spiritual heritage, traditional crafts and cultural achievements to a global audience.

She highlighted the lasting influence of Hazrat Ameer Kabir Mir Sayyid Ali Hamdani (R.A.), describing his legacy as one of Kashmir’s defining cultural signatures.

“We should spread this message through social media and show the world the wealth we have inherited from these great saints,” she said.

Need to Support Traditional Crafts

Speaking about Kashmir’s famous handicrafts, Mahjoor said products such as Pashmina shawls have earned worldwide recognition but still require stronger promotion and protection.

She urged artisans, businesses and the government to work together to preserve authentic Kashmiri craftsmanship and expand its presence in international markets.

“People are making efforts, and we should support them. We need dedicated workers and businesses to promote original Kashmiri crafts and take our potential to the world,” she said.

Appeal to Revive Kashmiri Language

Mahjoor also expressed concern over the declining use of the Kashmiri language among younger generations.

She said families should encourage children to speak Kashmiri at home and learn about the region’s literature, culture and traditions.

“Our children should know our language, literature and culture because they are our identity. I do not think it is the children’s fault; parents must encourage them. I want to see the Kashmiri language revived,” she said.

Civil Society Has an Important Role

Mahjoor concluded by urging civil society organisations to actively participate in preserving Kashmir’s cultural identity.

She said community organisations, educators and citizens should work together to protect the Valley’s rich heritage for future generations.

Suggested Graphics

Graphic 1: Nayeema Mahjoor’s Key Messages

• 🕌 Protect Kashmir’s Sufi shrines
• 🌍 Promote heritage globally
• 📱 Use social media effectively
• 🧵 Preserve traditional crafts
• 🗣️ Revive the Kashmiri language
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Encourage children to embrace their culture

Graphic 2: Kashmir’s Cultural Heritage