Shrines of Hazrat Baba Payamuddin Rishi and Other Sufi Saints Remain Centers of Devotion: Allama Hami

The shrines of revered saints and Sufi mystics—particularly in the Kashmir Valley, such as the shrine of Hazrat Baba Payamuddin Rishi—continue to serve as spiritual and devotional centers for the people, just as they have throughout history. This is evident from the fact that even today, thousands of people visit these sacred places almost daily, expressing their devotion and spiritual connection.

These remarks were made by Allama Dr. Ghulam Rasool Hami during his sermon at the Central Hanafi Shah-e-Hamdan Grand Mosque in Kelam, Kulgam, on the blessed occasion of Friday prayers. The event witnessed the participation of thousands of people.

Allama Hami emphasized that reverence for the shrines of Sufi saints is deeply rooted in the hearts of spiritually inclined and insightful individuals. He noted that the diverse gathering of people from various schools of thought at these shrines on a daily basis is living proof that the legacy and presence of the saints continue to provide peace, security, and comfort to countless souls.

He stated that visiting these shrines has always been a recommended and effective means of spiritual purification and elevation. Furthermore, during times of sorrow and hardship, people often turn to these spiritual sanctuaries to find solace and healing for their hearts.
Allama Hami urged the public to remain deeply connected to these holy places and to pass on this attachment—both in word and deed—to future generations.

Expressing serious concern over the growing rate of illegal and unethical consumption of drugs and alcohol, Allama Hami said that this scourge has led to a state of societal unrest. Not only are the individuals involved in such activities standing on the brink of ruin, but the entire community is also suffering from its destructive consequences.

He stressed that every head of household has a moral and social responsibility to monitor and guide their family members and to initiate practical steps toward eradicating drugs and alcohol—beginning from their own homes.
He also once again called upon government institutions to take firm and concrete legal measures to curb alcohol consumption and drug abuse without delay, in order to set the state on the path of development and public well-being.