Hazrat Sakhi Zain-ud-Din Wali (RA) and his Life
In the spiritually rich land of Kashmir, few saints represent the true essence of the Reshi Sufi tradition like Hazrat Sakhi Zain-ud-Din Wali (RA), also known as Baba Zainuddin Reshi. He was a great 15th-century saint and a beloved disciple of Sheikh Nur-ud-Din Noorani (RA), widely known as Nund Rishi.
His life is a powerful story of change, devotion, sacrifice, and unity among people of different faiths.
Early Life and Spiritual Journey
Hazrat Zain-ud-Din Wali (RA) was born in the early 1400s in Bounderkote, Kishtwar. He originally belonged to a Hindu Rajput family and was known as Zia Singh (or Zai Singh). His father, Yesh Singh, was a local ruler who was killed when Zia Singh was just a young boy. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
During his childhood, he fell seriously ill. His mother, worried for his life, promised that if he recovered, she would take him to meet the great saint Sheikh Nur-ud-Din Noorani (RA). After he recovered, she fulfilled her promise and travelled with him to Bumzua near Aishmuqam.
There, both mother and son accepted Islam. Zia Singh was renamed Zain-ud-Din and became a disciple in the Reshi order. His spiritual training began under the guidance of Nund Rishi, while his mother was guided by the saint’s disciple Zoon Ded.
He later spent years in deep meditation and spiritual practice in places like Mandjan village in Sopore. After achieving spiritual excellence, his teacher advised him to settle in a cave at Aishmuqam.
Hazrat Zain-ud-Din Wali (RA) spent the rest of his life there in worship and solitude until his passing around 1448 AD.
The Shrine at Aishmuqam
The shrine of Hazrat Zain-ud-Din Wali (RA), known as Ziyarat Sharif Aishmuqam, is located on a beautiful hill in Anantnag district, South Kashmir. It stands about 100 metres above ground and overlooks the stunning Lidder Valley. It is around 20 km from Pahalgam.
The shrine complex includes:
- The sacred cave where the saint meditated and is believed to be resting
- Relics such as his bow, arrows, and wooden bread
- A traditional wooden mosque and khanqah (Sufi lodge)
- Nearby associated shrines at Srigufwara and Serbal (Pahalgam)
This place is not only spiritually important but also reflects Kashmir’s shared cultural heritage. People from different religions visit the shrine, and even Amarnath Yatra pilgrims stop here.
A famous relic called Aasa Sharif is also preserved here, which is linked in local tradition to Prophet Musa (AS). According to belief, the saint’s final resting place was divinely guided through a dream.
Importance in the Reshi Tradition
The Reshi order is a unique spiritual tradition of Kashmir. It focuses on simple living, meditation, love for humanity, and often vegetarian practices.
Hazrat Zain-ud-Din Wali (RA) is considered one of the most important saints of this movement after Baba Bamuddin Rishi (RA). His life shows how a prince gave up worldly power to follow the path of spirituality and service.
He is remembered for:
- His generosity and kindness
- Deep spiritual strength
- Spreading peace and unity among people
Urs of Hazrat Zain-ud-Din Wali (RA)
The annual Urs of Hazrat Sakhi Zain-ud-Din Wali (RA) is one of the biggest spiritual gatherings in South Kashmir. Thousands of devotees attend every year.
Main Date (Solar Calendar)
The Urs is traditionally observed on 13th Baisakh (around 25 April). This includes the famous Zool festival, where the shrine is lit with torches, symbolising light over darkness.
2026 Urs – Key Night
In 2026, an important night of the Urs:
- Shab-e-Dom: 1 April 2026 (12 Shawwal 1447 AH)
- Isha Prayer: 10:00 PM
- Followed by Shab Khawani (night-long recitations, Quran, Na’at, and devotional hymns)
Activities During Urs
- Night prayers and spiritual gatherings
- Zool (torchlight ceremony)
- Langar (free food for all)
- Large gatherings of devotees
Authorities arrange proper security, traffic control, medical aid, and facilities to manage the huge crowds.
A Symbol of Unity in Kashmir
Hazrat Zain-ud-Din Wali (RA) represents the true spirit of Kashmir — a land of unity, spirituality, and shared culture. From a Hindu prince to a great Muslim saint, his life connects communities and spreads a message of peace.
Today, as devotees gather for the Urs, the shrine at Aishmuqam shines as a symbol of hope, faith, and harmony in the Valley.
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