BY SUHAIL AHMAD MIR
In the serene village of Aishmuqam, nestled within the picturesque Anantnag district of south Kashmir, lies the historical shrine of Hazrat Zain-din Wali (RA). Here, amidst a tranquil ambiance, hundreds of devotees recently gathered to partake in the annual ‘Zool’ festival, a cherished tradition steeped in centuries-old reverence.
The focal point of the festival is the ritualistic burning of ‘mashals’ or wooden torches, symbolizing the dawn of agricultural activities after the prolonged winter season. This symbolic act is not merely a tradition but a heartfelt expression of devotion and gratitude towards the revered saint.
Legend has it that centuries ago, during the reign of Ashushah Badshah, the village of Aishmuqam was besieged by a terrifying demon. In the face of despair, it was a young orphan Gujjar boy named Bumisad who bravely challenged the demon, ultimately vanquishing it after a week-long battle. In commemoration of this triumph of good over evil, the tradition of lighting wooden torches was born—a tradition that endures to this day with undiminished fervor.
The shrine itself, perched atop a 100-meter-high hillock, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees and visitors alike. Its cavernous interior, accessed by a flight of stairs, serves as a sanctuary for spiritual reflection and solace.
The ‘Zool’ festival transcends religious boundaries, attracting devotees from diverse backgrounds who come together to pay homage to Hazrat Zain-din Wali (RA) and seek blessings for peace and prosperity. Among the throngs of devotees are also tourists and local army officers, drawn by the allure of this sacred tradition and the sense of communal harmony it fosters.
The significance of the Aishmuqam Shrine extends beyond its religious importance—it stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir. Constructed in honor of Sheikh Zain-ud-din, a revered disciple of Nund Rishi, the shrine holds a place of reverence not only for Muslims but also for people of various faiths who regard it as a sacred site of spiritual pilgrimage.
As the flames of the ‘Zool’ festival illuminate the night sky, they serve as a beacon of hope and unity, reminding us of the enduring power of faith and tradition in bringing communities together. In a world marked by rapid change, the preservation of such timeless rituals serves as a poignant reminder of our collective heritage and the values that bind us as one.
