Ganderbal, Sep 26: Clarifying recent public debate and reports surrounding the distribution of traditional food at local shrines, Dr. Syed Darakhshan Andrabi, Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, Saturday stated that there is no controversy regarding the preparation or consumption of Tehri (a traditional Kashmiri turmeric rice dish).
Speaking to media persons after inaugurating the renovated Ziayarat Shareef Rayil in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, Dr. Andrabi emphasised that her recent directions were intended solely to maintain Sanctity, cleanliness, and order within spiritual premises, rather than to discourage cultural traditions.
“There is no controversy over Tehri. We should prepare and have Tehri every day,” Dr. Andrabi stated, stressing that the dish remains an integral part of local heritage. “ People can bring Tehri to Khankahs as it is an integral part of our culture. All I wanted to say was that we have constructed Tehri sheds, where people should distribute it,” said Andrabi.
Andrabi said spilling food in the premises of Khankahs “is an act of disrespect”. She said food distribution at Khankahs in a haphazard way leads to littering of the premises of these holy places, which will not be tolerated, she further added.
“We have put a lot of effort in giving a facelift to these Khankahs. It becomes our duty to make people aware that they should not spread litter at these holy places,” she added.
Dr Andrabi noted that spilling food across spiritual spaces undermines their sanctity and cleanliness.
To address the issue while accommodating cultural practices, the Board has constructed dedicated sheds and designated areas at major shrines. Devotees are encouraged to utilise these designated spaces for distributing food, ensuring that religious and cultural traditions continue smoothly without compromising the upkeep of these holy sites.
Earlier, the Chairperson Waqf board Dr Darkhshan Andrabi inaugurated the newly renovated Ziayarat Shareef at Rayil Gund area of Kangan in Ganderbal district. The Waqf Board Chairman reaffirmed commitment to upgrading infrastructure across religious sites while preserving their spiritual environment and heritage, she added.
