According to the ‘Neelmat-Purana’, the Kashmir valley, referred to as ‘Sharda Bhoomi’, represents ‘Poorn-Prakriti’ (whole Nature). This valley has been the birthplace of countless saints throughout history, including the notable Mirza Pandit, who emerged on the surface of ‘Sharda Bhoomi’ on the 1st lunar day of the month of ‘Posh’ in 1801 Bikrami, which corresponds to the year 1744 A.D. Born a Brahmin, Mirza Pandit was a follower of ‘Sanatan Dharma’. The term ‘Sanatan’ signifies ‘Anadi’ (without beginning) and ‘Anantha’ (endless), representing that which is eternal and everlasting. ‘Dharma’, as defined by the ‘Vedas’, refers to the principles of reality that are intrinsic to the nature and design of the universe. ‘Sanatan Dharma’ employs ‘yoga’ as a means to achieve ‘Moksha’ (Salvation). The Vedanta philosophy posits that appearances are illusory and that the only true reality is what lies beyond these illusions, known as ‘Brahman’. The existence of these illusions is attributed to ‘Maya’, which will persist until ‘Moksha’ is attained, at which point they cease to exist.
In a cluster of villages nestled in a vast patch of land between the Brengi and Kokarnag streams lies the small village of Hangalgund. This village is located in the Anantnag district of south Kashmir, about 78 kilometers from Srinagar. TheHe is celebrated for his deep devotion, insightful spiritual wisdom, and humble way of life. Born in the early 18th century in Kashmir, he devoted his life to spiritual practices, sharing knowledge, and uplifting his community through his teachings. As a child, Mirza Kak Sahib was always engaged in sadhanas, bhakti, and prayers. He developed a distaste for worldly pleasures and chose to live a very simple life, earning him the nickname of a simpleton. He assisted his family with household chores and worked alongside his adopted father in the fields. From a young age, he sought 'God-realization,' steering clear of worldly distractions and avoiding anger, pride, and arrogance throughout his life.
The Kokarnag stream babbles 9 in clear, fresh water through Chinar, willow, and tall poplar groves, and dots the place with orchards of abundantly fruiting apple, pear, apricot, and walnut trees, while vast expanses of paddy fields are vibrant green with color. The name Hangalgund, which has its heavenly associations with destiny, is due to its being the village from where a Yogi set out to unfold mysteries about destiny and its offerings on the earth and hence memorializes his journey. Mirza Kak, affectionately "Kak Sahib," foremost of saints, spiritual preceptor, and poet from Kashmir.
(Samadi of Swami Mirza Kak Ji)
The life of Swami Mirza Kak is full of devotion, self realisation and truthfulness. His teaching emphasized love, humility, and service to humanity and the overall mankind. He composed devotional poetry in Kashmiri, and some of his Kashmiri compositions include the famous Shiv Puran, which speaks of his depth of spirituality and his closeness with Lord Shiva. His poetry continues to nurture the spiritual seekers and occupies a prime position in Kashmiri literature. His tomb in Hangalgund village in the Anantnag district of Kashmir has become a pilgrimage for his followers. Annual events are conducted here in commemoration of him and to carry forth his teachings. Swami Mirza Kak lives on through his compositions and through the continuous faith in him from his followers, representing the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of Kashmir.
(Vivek Koul)
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