People in Kashmir recently observed the death anniversary of Sufi saint Sayed Saleh Khan and said that they would continue spread his message of love, peace and humanity.
The three-day 'Urs' (death anniversary), began on Wednesdayand will conclude on Friday in Srinagar.
Khan, who originally hailed from Pakhla village (now in Pakistan), moved to the valley in 16th century, and later his shrine was built in Budgam District.
Devotees gathered at the shrine to pay their respect and seek blessings of the famous saint.
"We have to take forward the message of Sayed Saleh Khan, which is not about Sufism. It is about the need to show the right path to all our brothers, be it Muslims or non-Muslims," said a devotee, Ghulam Nabi Shah.
Sufism was a reform movement of the 16th century against orthodox Hinduism and Islam.
This branch of Islam believes in mysticism and preaches the worship of God through devotional singing.
During the celebrations, the devotees also participate in various cultural programmes with much enthusiasm and gaiety.
"This festival goes on for three days. Devotees keep coming to this shrine. After offering prayers, a Sufi musical programme and other cultural programmes also take place," said Chairman of Urs Committee, Hakeem Yaseen.
Kashmir Valley has been the abode of Sufi saints since centuries.
It is said Khan, who was a fine calligrapher, meditated for almost a dozen years in a cave and also stayed for some time in Srinagar, and the cave, where he meditated, still exists.
