Book Review: Abir Bazaz’s ‘Nund Rishi’ Explores Life And Times Of Kashmir’s Sufi Mystic Sheikh Noor-Ud-Din Noorani

In the heart of the Himalayas, amid the resplendent valleys and snow-clad peaks of mediaeval Kashmir, a spiritual transformation was quietly taking place. This transformation was not just religious. It was the blossoming of Sufism, a mystical branch of Islam that found a uniquely fertile ground in this region. Sufism, with its emphasis on the inner journey, divine love, and spiritual union, wove itself into the fabric of Kashmiri society during this era, leaving an indelible mark on the region’s cultural, religious, and social tapestry. 

Medieval Kashmir, during the 14th century and beyond, was marked by a rich tapestry of cultures and influences. It was a time when mystics and poets, known as Sufis, began to wander through the picturesque landscapes, their verses resonating like a soothing melody amidst the tumultuous historical events. These Sufis, prominently represented by luminaries such as Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani and Nund Rishi became the torchbearers of a unique fusion of Islamic mysticism and indigenous Kashmiri traditions. 

A new book by Abir Bazaz, Assistant Professor of English at Ashoka University, is an authoritative endeavour to unravel the cultural and political history of mediaeval Kashmir through the poetry of patron saint Nund Reshi. The book ‘Nund Rishi: Poetry and Politics in Medieval Kashmir’ delves into the life and works of Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani, commonly known as Nund Rishi or Sheikh-ul-Alam. He was a prominent mystic and poet who lived in mediaeval Kashmir during the 14th century. The book provides a historical and cultural context of this period, focusing on the socio-political landscape of Kashmir during Nund Rishi's time. 

Amidst the pages of ‘Nund Rishi: Poetry and Politics in Medieval Kashmir’, the reader is transported to a bygone era, a time when the mystical verses of Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani resonated through the picturesque landscapes of Kashmir. In this insightful exploration of Nund Rishi’s life and legacy, the author immerses us in the complex tapestry of mediaeval Kashmir, where poetry and politics intertwine in fascinating ways. This book is a window into the soul of a mystic poet and the socio-political dynamics of a region that left an indelible mark on its cultural and spiritual history. 

Nund Rishi was born in 1378 AD to a tribe of shepherds in what is today the Kulgam district of south Kashmir. He travelled to different parts of Kashmir as his Rishi movement with its emphasis on monism and austerity gained large adherence and brought more and more people into the fold of Islam. Nund Rishi played a significant role in shaping the religious and literary traditions of the region. He is renowned for his devotional poetry, which reflects a synthesis of Sufi mysticism and the indigenous culture of Kashmir. The book explores the sociopolitical and religious dynamics of Kashmir, which greatly influenced Nund Rishi’s poetry and his role as a spiritual leader. 

Nund Rishi’s poetry, written in the Kashmiri language, is known for its spiritual and philosophical themes, emphasising the importance of inner devotion and the unity of all religions. His verses continue to hold cultural and religious significance in the region.

The book delves into Nund Rishi’s poetry, his influence on Kashmiri society, and how his ideas intersected with the political dynamics of mediaeval Kashmir. Through meticulous research and engaging prose, the author skillfully navigates through the complex web of history, mysticism, and poetry that characterises Nund Rishi’s legacy. 

The book delves deep into Nund Rishi’s poetry, which is the cornerstone of his legacy. His verses, composed in the Kashmiri language, are not only aesthetically beautiful but also deeply philosophical. They emphasise the importance of inner spirituality, the oneness of all religions, and the rejection of ritualistic practices. The author skillfully analyses Nund Rishi’s poetry, making it accessible to readers who may not be familiar with the Kashmiri language, while also offering fresh interpretations for those who are. 

Moreover, the book does an excellent job of exploring the political dimensions of Nund Rishi’s life. In mediaeval Kashmir, where politics and religion were often intertwined, Nund Rishi’s influence extended beyond the spiritual realm. The author provides a nuanced examination of how Nund Rishi’s ideas and teachings intersected with the politics of his time. This aspect of the book is particularly enlightening as it demonstrates how Nund Rishi’s philosophy had real-world implications and contributed to the sociopolitical discourse of his era. 

Throughout the narrative, the author maintains a balanced and scholarly tone, drawing from a wide range of historical sources and academic research. This adds credibility to the book’s analysis and makes it a valuable resource for scholars, historians, and anyone interested in the history and culture of Kashmir.

‘Nund Rishi: Poetry and Politics in Medieval Kashmir’ is a meticulously researched and engagingly written book that offers a comprehensive exploration of a pivotal figure in Kashmiri history. It successfully navigates the intricate web of Nund Rishi’s life, poetry, and political influence, providing readers with a rich tapestry of knowledge about the mediaeval Kashmiri society. This book is a must-read for those seeking a deeper understanding of the cultural, spiritual, and political dynamics of Kashmir during that era.

(The book ‘Nund Rishi: Poetry and Politics in Medieval Kashmir’ is written by Abir Bazaz and is published by Cambridge University Press. Views expressed are personal.)