Srinagar: Jammu & Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson Dr Syed Darakhshan Andrabi has been conferred the Hazrat Sheikh-ul-Aalam Award 2026 by Kashmir Markaz-e-Adab-wa-Saqafat (KMAS), Charar-e-Sharief, in recognition of her contribution towards strengthening the Rishi-Sufi tradition and preserving Kashmir’s spiritual heritage.
The award acknowledges Dr Andrabi’s role in the development, restoration and upgradation of spiritual shrines across Jammu & Kashmir, besides her efforts to promote the values associated with Kashmir’s centuries-old Rishi-Sufi ethos.
The honour was presented in the presence of eminent scholars, members of the J&K Waqf Board and representatives of KMAS.
Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Dr Andrabi said the Rishi-Sufi tradition represents a defining element of Kashmir’s spiritual identity and continues to convey a message of peace, tolerance, compassion, brotherhood and communal harmony.
She said the preservation of Sufi shrines goes beyond administrative responsibilities, describing their upkeep as a sacred duty towards Kashmir’s spiritual legacy.
Dr Andrabi emphasised that the region’s shrines associated with Awliya, Rishis and Sufi saints should retain their historical and architectural character while being equipped with modern facilities for devotees and visitors.
She said her vision was to develop these sacred sites through a balanced approach combining heritage conservation, cleanliness, pilgrim amenities, beautification and spiritual ambience.
Referring to the teachings of Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani (RA) and other spiritual figures of Kashmir, Dr Andrabi said their message transcends religious and social boundaries and remains deeply relevant in today’s world.
She dedicated the award to all individuals and institutions working for the preservation of Kashmir’s spiritual heritage and reaffirmed her commitment to the dignified upkeep and development of Sufi and spiritual shrines across Jammu & Kashmir.
KMAS representatives appreciated Dr Andrabi’s contribution to promoting the Rishi-Sufi ethos and safeguarding the region’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy.