Srinagar 07 Oct : Chairperson of the Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board, Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, has been honoured with the Hazrat Sheikh-ul-Aalam Award 2026 by Kashmir Markaz-e-Adab-wa-Saqafat (KMAS), Charar-e-Sharief, for her contribution to the propagation of the Rishi-Sufi ethos and development of spiritual shrines across J&K.
The award was presented in the presence of scholars, members of the J&K Waqf Board and representatives of KMAS.
The organisers recognised Andrabi’s efforts towards preserving and strengthening Kashmir’s spiritual and cultural heritage, besides her role in the restoration, development and upgradation of shrines across the Union Territory.
Expressing gratitude for the honour, Andrabi said the Rishi-Sufi tradition represents a profound expression of Kashmir’s spiritual heritage and carries a message of peace, compassion, tolerance, brotherhood and harmony.
She said serving the Sufi shrines of J&K was not merely an administrative responsibility but a commitment to preserving the spiritual legacy of the region.
Andrabi said the shrines associated with Awliya, Rishis and Sufi saints should be maintained with dignity while preserving their historical and architectural character. She said her vision was to combine heritage conservation with modern amenities, cleanliness and improved facilities for pilgrims while retaining the spiritual ambience of the shrines.
She also highlighted the teachings of Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani and other spiritual figures of Kashmir, saying their message transcended religious and social boundaries and remained relevant to peaceful coexistence.
Andrabi dedicated the award to those involved in preserving and serving Kashmir’s spiritual heritage and reiterated her commitment to the conservation, development and dignified upkeep of Sufi and spiritual shrines across J&K.
Representatives of KMAS appreciated her contribution to promoting the Rishi-Sufi ethos and preserving the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
