Inspired by Shah-e-Hamdan (RA), its founder Dr Sameer Siddiqui blends devotion with development. Beyond Sunni-Shia gatherings, it offers free classes, health camps, and environmental drives, proving that true faith manifests as benefit to society.
Irfan Shabir
Resting quietly beneath the emerald hills of Grendwan, Aishmuqam, where the air is pure, and silence speaks in whispers of devotion, Khanqah-e-Hydari rises as a sanctuary of faith, wisdom, and reconciliation. It is not merely a physical space of worship, but a spiritual landscape in which hearts are softened, minds are enlightened, and the timeless ethos of Kashmiri Sufism is lovingly revived.
Khanqah-e-Hydari stands as a radiant continuation of Kashmir’s venerable Sufi tradition, a tradition historically anchored in love (Mohabbat), tolerance (Rawadari), humility, and selfless service to humanity. In a world increasingly fractured by divisions, the Khanqah offers a rare and powerful alternative: a shared spiritual ground where unity flourishes without erasing diversity, and dialogue replaces discord.
Here, Muslims belonging to all schools of thought gather with dignity and mutual reverence. Sunni and Shia, Deobandi and Barelvi each find space, voice, and belonging. Faith at Khanqah-e-Hydari is not confined to ritual alone; it is lived through understanding, compassion, and collective responsibility.
The institution harmoniously weaves together religious scholarship and spiritual refinement, moral cultivation and social consciousness. Alongside structured teachings in Islamic studies and spirituality, the Khanqah actively engages with the realities of contemporary life. It seeks not only to nurture souls, but also to uplift communities—intellectually, socially, economically, and ethically.
Regular initiatives include free educational and remedial classes, Arabic language instruction, vocational and skill-development programs, medical and health-awareness camps, blood donation drives, plantation and environmental protection campaigns, and community-based social awareness programs. Each initiative reflects a deeply rooted belief: that true spirituality must translate into service, and true faith must manifest as benefit to society.
Beyond programs and gatherings, Khanqah-e-Hydari offers something profoundly rare—inner stillness. Visitors often speak of an indescribable calm that envelops the heart, a sense of spiritual solitude that reconnects the soul with its Creator. Within its serene surroundings, remembrance (Zikr) becomes an experience, not a formality, and peace becomes tangible.
Among the many spiritually luminous assemblies held at the Khanqah, a recent Grand Majlis commemorating Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (RA) was observed with deep reverence and devotion. The gathering resonated with collective Zikr-o-Azkar, heartfelt supplication, and spiritual discourse, embodying the essence of humility, sincerity and unwavering faith exemplified by the Companion of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The Majlis further strengthened the spirit of unity and remembrance that defines Khanqah-e-Hydari.
The guiding force behind this noble institution is its founder, Dr Muhammad Sameer Shafi Siddiqui, a PhD in Islamic research. Drawing inspiration from the transformative legacy of great Kashmiri saints, most notably Shah-e-Hamdan (RA), Dr Sameer Siddiqui envisions a revival of authentic Kashmiri Sufism: one that enlightens minds, purifies hearts, and reforms society.
His mission extends beyond religious instruction. Through education, ethical guidance, and social engagement, he strives to empower youth and elders alike—strengthening their faith while equipping them with knowledge, skills, and economic awareness. The goal is a community that is spiritually anchored, intellectually awakened, socially responsible, and economically resilient.
Throughout the year, Khanqah-e-Hydari hosts major religious and spiritual congregations that draw participants across Kashmir. These include the Grand Milad-un-Nabi (SAW)Â Conference on 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal, Shab-e-Meraj-un-Nabi (SAW), the Grand Shab-e-Qadr Majlis on 27th Ramadan-ul-Mubarak, Muharram-ul-Haram Majlis on 10th Muharram in remembrance of Imam Hussain (AS) and the birth and martyrdom anniversaries of Amir-ul-Momineen Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS), the noble personality in whose name the Khanqah is affiliated.
Remarkably, the doors of Khanqah-e-Hydari remain open not only to Muslims but also to visitors from non-Muslim communities. Drawn by its atmosphere of serenity, openness, and humanitarian spirit, people from diverse backgrounds visit the Khanqah—affirming its message that peace and love know no boundaries.
At a time when societies yearn for moral clarity and spiritual direction, Khanqah-e-Hydari stands as a beacon of hope. It revives the soul of Kashmir’s Sufi heritage, nurtures harmony through remembrance, builds unity through understanding, and serves humanity through love.
Khanqah-e-Hydari—where devotion finds depth, unity finds meaning, and the eternal fragrance of Kashmiri Sufism blooms once again.