Shah-e-Khaas: Legacy of Shah Hamdan and Heart of Srinagar’s Heritage

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

SRINAGAR SEPT 21:-Shah-re-Khaas, popularly known as Downtown Srinagar, continues to stand as the historical and cultural heart of the city, deeply rooted in the legacy of 14th-century Sufi saint Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani, revered as Shah Hamdan (RA). His arrival in Kashmir not only spread Islam but also ushered in sweeping cultural, social, and economic reforms that shaped the Valley’s distinct identity.

Shah Hamdan (RA), who authored more than 70 works in Arabic and Persian, is remembered for introducing Sufi teachings, promoting ethical governance through his treatise Zakhirat-ul-Muluk, and laying the foundation for institutions of learning and worship such as the Khanqah-e-Moula. His devotional compilation Awraad-ul-Fatehah remains an integral part of Kashmiri spiritual life.

Equally transformative was his role in introducing Persian arts and crafts to Kashmir. By bringing skilled artisans, he revolutionized the local economy with techniques of pashmina and kani weaving, papier-mâché, pottery, calligraphy, and other crafts—industries that continue to define Kashmir’s global reputation.

Downtown Srinagar, shaped in large part by this legacy, remains a living repository of heritage. Its narrow alleys, traditional bazaars, and historic monuments reflect a blend of spirituality, culture, and commerce. Landmarks such as the Jamia Masjid, Khanqah-e-Moula, Dastageer Sahib Shrine, Pathar Masjid, and the historic Maharaj Ganj market draw devotees, historians, and visitors alike.

Located along the banks of the Jhelum River, Shah-re-Khaas is also home to artisans who keep alive age-old crafts like wood carving, papier-mâché, copperware, and pashmina weaving. Its timber-and-brick houses, with intricate latticework (pinjrakari), stand as a testament to the unique Central Asian-inspired architectural style introduced by Shah Hamdan (RA) and his followers.

More than a geographical locality, Shah-re-Khaas remains a vibrant symbol of Kashmir’s spiritual depth, cultural richness, and trading legacy—an enduring reminder of how history, memory, and community converge in the heart of Srinagar.