By: Peerzada Sayeed
Karnah : Demonstrating deep respect for the religious sentiments of the Muslim community, the annual Urs of Sayyidah Bibi Fatima was observed with great devotion at the Line of Control in Karnah. Held from November 11 to November 23 at Dhani Sadpora, the event witnessed a large turnout of locals.
The Urs, a significant spiritual occasion in the region, featured the offering of a ceremonial cloth at the shrine of Sayyidah Bibi Fatima. The event was organized by the Urs Committee, with strong support from the Indian Army, which provided logistical and infrastructural assistance. The local community lauded this collaborative effort.
Sayyidah Bibi Fatima is a highly revered spiritual figure in Karnah, with devotees firmly believing in her power to bless and fulfill prayers. This annual celebration stands as a testament to the region’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
Similar Urs ceremonies are also conducted in Nowgam for Pir Palio Rahman and in Muzaffarabad (Pakistan-administered Kashmir) at Mitha Sai Sarkar’s shrine in Tarida Sharif, commemorating Sayyidah Bibi Fatima’s brothers. Historically, from 1947 to 1983, these Urs celebrations were jointly observed across both sides of the border. Loudspeakers allowed participants to engage with the ceremonies on either side, fostering a sense of unity.
However, the tradition ceased due to deteriorating cross-border relations. Locals fondly remember those days and express hope for the revival of this unique practice. Despite these challenges, the Urs remains a cherished symbol of religious devotion, harmony, and spiritual unity in the region.
