SRINAGAR: Addressing a gathering at Astan Aliya Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jeelani (RA) in Khanyar, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq paid tribute to Umm-ul-Momineen Hazrat Khadija (RA) on her Youm-e-Visal and urged people to use the month of Ramzan for self-reflection and character building. He emphasised that true strength lies in adhering to the values, morals, and ethics taught by the Quran and Sunnah.
Mirwaiz reminded the audience that every individual is part of a larger society, and when each person strengthens their own moral compass, the collective resilience of society increases. He warned that corruption, malpractices, greed, addiction, and alcoholism can only be curbed if individuals commit to ethical conduct and social responsibility.
Highlighting the need for collective reform, he said that while personal transformation is the first step, it must be followed by efforts to build a society that resists harmful influences. He pointed out that negative forces gain ground only when communities allow them to take root.
Referring to the recent controversy in Gulmarg, Mirwaiz said that while authorities have a duty to act responsibly, those within society who facilitated and organised such events must also be held accountable. He cautioned that seeking financial gains at the cost of Kashmir’s religious and cultural values sets a dangerous precedent, eroding the region’s heritage and moral foundations.
“We do not need to compromise our principles in the name of ‘prosperity’ and ‘modernity,’” he said, adding that Allah has blessed Kashmir with natural beauty and exquisite crafts that are enough to sustain its people with dignity.
Mirwaiz urged hoteliers and tourism stakeholders to act responsibly and avoid ventures that harm the Valley’s cultural identity. He concluded by appealing to the people to remain steadfast in their faith and values, ensuring that society remains strong, principled, and guided by its rich heritage.
