Srinagar, Oct 6 (KNS): Chairperson of the Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board, Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, was honoured with the Hazrat Sheikh-ul-Aalam Award 2026 by Kashmir Markaz-e-Adab-wa-Saqafat (KMAS), Charar-e-Sharief, in recognition of her contribution to the propagation of the Rishi-Sufi ideology and development, restoration and upgradation of spiritual shrines across Jammu & Kashmir.

The award was presented in the presence of eminent scholars, members of the J&K Waqf Board and representatives of KMAS.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Andrabi expressed gratitude to the organisation for conferring the honour and said the Rishi-Sufi tradition represents a profound expression of Kashmir’s spiritual heritage, carrying a message of peace, compassion, tolerance, brotherhood and harmony.

She said serving the Sufi shrines of Jammu & Kashmir was not merely an administrative responsibility but a sacred commitment to preserving the spiritual legacy of the region.

Dr Andrabi said shrines associated with Awliya, Rishis and Sufi saints are centres of faith and spiritual guidance and should be maintained with dignity while preserving their historical and architectural character.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

She said her vision was to develop these sacred spaces by combining heritage conservation with modern amenities, cleanliness, pilgrim facilities and a spiritual ambience, while ensuring that the message of the saints remains accessible to future generations.

Dr Andrabi also said the teachings of Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani (RA) and other spiritual luminaries of Kashmir transcend religious and social boundaries and continue to convey a message of peaceful coexistence.

She dedicated the honour to all those associated with the preservation and service of Kashmir’s spiritual heritage and reiterated her commitment to the development, beautification, conservation and dignified upkeep of Sufi and spiritual shrines across Jammu & Kashmir.

Representatives of KMAS appreciated Dr Andrabi’s contribution to promoting the Rishi-Sufi ethos and preserving the spiritual and cultural heritage of Jammu & Kashmir.(KNS)