Muslim life and Rituals A case study of major shrines of Kashmir

Abstract

An attempt has been made to examine carefully both the religious and newlinesocial significance of the invocatory prayers and litanies like the Awrad i Fathiya durud and manqabat Since history cannot be studied in watertight compartments of sacred and profane the purpose has been to promote an objective understanding of the creative interrelationship between religion and newlinesociety The present study has elucidated the khatmat recited at religious assemblages in the shrines and homes Another important dimension of the newlinereligious life of the people of Srinagar on the eve of the urs of Hazrat Naqshband Mushkilkusha is related to the performance of the prescribed asr prayer by the devotees in congregation known as the Khauja Digar Yet another aspect of the Muslim life and rituals at the khanqahs in newlineKashmir that merits careful examination is the significant presence of women at newlinethe shrines Not only do they participate in various rituals performed at the newlineshrines but also offer ordained congregational prayers with great devotion newlineMoreover the age old practice of singing wanwun in praise of Muslim Rishis in the precincts of the shrines has been examined in sharp detail The various dimensions of social and religious attitudes of Kashmiri women with reference to the historical role of the shrines have been analysed in depth newline