
The recent decision by the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (BOSE) to remove a chapter on Sheikh Noor-U-Din Wali from the Class 9 textbooks has sparked widespread condemnation. This decision, which marginalizes the life and teachings of one of Kashmir’s most revered saints, is not just an affront to our cultural heritage but also a missed opportunity for fostering values that can unite a diverse and fractured world. Sheikh Noor-U-Din Wali, affectionately called Nund Rishi, is a towering figure in the history of Kashmir. A 14th-century Sufi saint and poet, his teachings transcend religion, promoting a universal message of peace, communal harmony, and environmental stewardship. His philosophy, deeply rooted in compassion and spirituality, continues to resonate in an age where divisive ideologies often drown out voices of unity. The saint’s poetic verses, written in Kashmiri, advocate simple living and kindness towards all beings. Nund Rishi’s emphasis on communal harmony is particularly relevant today, not only for Kashmir, which has endured decades of conflict, but for the entire nation grappling with rising intolerance. At a time when the youth are exposed to polarizing narratives, Sheikh Noor-U-Din’s life offers a counterbalance—a reminder of the shared humanity that binds us all. His teachings align seamlessly with the Indian ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family. Moreover, his concern for the environment stands as a prescient warning for contemporary society. He spoke of sustainable living long before environmental degradation became a global crisis. By studying his life, students can gain valuable insights into the need for a harmonious relationship with nature, a lesson that feels increasingly urgent in the face of climate change. The removal of the chapter is not just a disservice to Kashmiri culture but to the broader Indian tradition of celebrating diverse voices. Our strength lies in its inclusivity, and teaching about figures like Sheikh Noor-U-Din across the country can foster greater understanding and unity among its people. Educational institutions have a profound responsibility to inspire future generations with stories that nurture empathy and inclusivity. Sheikh Noor-U-Din’s teachings should not be confined to a regional syllabus; they deserve a national platform. Reinstating the chapter in Kashmir and incorporating it into curricula across the country would be a step towards preserving his invaluable legacy. The saint’s message of peace, love, and harmony is a beacon of hope, illuminating a path toward a more compassionate and united society.
The recent decision by the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (BOSE) to remove a chapter on Sheikh Noor-U-Din Wali from the Class 9 textbooks has sparked widespread condemnation. This decision, which marginalizes the life and teachings of one of Kashmir’s most revered saints, is not just an affront to our cultural heritage but also a missed opportunity for fostering values that can unite a diverse and fractured world. Sheikh Noor-U-Din Wali, affectionately called Nund Rishi, is a towering figure in the history of Kashmir. A 14th-century Sufi saint and poet, his teachings transcend religion, promoting a universal message of peace, communal harmony, and environmental stewardship. His philosophy, deeply rooted in compassion and spirituality, continues to resonate in an age where divisive ideologies often drown out voices of unity. The saint’s poetic verses, written in Kashmiri, advocate simple living and kindness towards all beings. Nund Rishi’s emphasis on communal harmony is particularly relevant today, not only for Kashmir, which has endured decades of conflict, but for the entire nation grappling with rising intolerance. At a time when the youth are exposed to polarizing narratives, Sheikh Noor-U-Din’s life offers a counterbalance—a reminder of the shared humanity that binds us all. His teachings align seamlessly with the Indian ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family. Moreover, his concern for the environment stands as a prescient warning for contemporary society. He spoke of sustainable living long before environmental degradation became a global crisis. By studying his life, students can gain valuable insights into the need for a harmonious relationship with nature, a lesson that feels increasingly urgent in the face of climate change. The removal of the chapter is not just a disservice to Kashmiri culture but to the broader Indian tradition of celebrating diverse voices. Our strength lies in its inclusivity, and teaching about figures like Sheikh Noor-U-Din across the country can foster greater understanding and unity among its people. Educational institutions have a profound responsibility to inspire future generations with stories that nurture empathy and inclusivity. Sheikh Noor-U-Din’s teachings should not be confined to a regional syllabus; they deserve a national platform. Reinstating the chapter in Kashmir and incorporating it into curricula across the country would be a step towards preserving his invaluable legacy. The saint’s message of peace, love, and harmony is a beacon of hope, illuminating a path toward a more compassionate and united society.
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