Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon
In the midst of the frenetic pace of modern life, there exists an opportunity to immerse oneself in the divine beauty of Allah's creation and contemplate its profound significance. John Muir, the esteemed philosopher and naturalist, once eloquently said, "In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks." Guided by this timeless wisdom, my cousins Umar Akhoon, Javaid Akhoon, Tariq Ahmad Akhoon, and I embarked on a soul-enriching journey to the hidden gem of Naranag, nestled amid the picturesque landscapes of Ganderbal, Jammu and Kashmir. This journey was not just an exploration of awe-inspiring vistas, but a revelation of the urgent need for preserving and uplifting this enchanting land.
Naranag: A Natural Masterpiece
Naranag, located in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, holds the key to a mesmerizing realm of natural wonders. Encircled by majestic mountains and graced by the crystal-clear waters of the Naranag River, this place stands as a testament to Allah's divine artistry. The lush greenery, vibrant flora, and glistening waters coalesce in a harmonious symphony that captivates the soul.
Preserving Nature's Bounty
Yet, during our sojourn, it became evident that this place, despite its allure, had not received the attention it deserved from the authorities. Basic amenities like proper waste disposal bins, bathrooms, and tap water were conspicuously absent, leading to littering that marred the pristine landscape. As conscientious caretakers of the environment, we took it upon ourselves to ensure proper waste disposal and provide essential amenities, maintaining the ecological balance.
As we ventured further into the alluring landscape, we witnessed a distressing sight – numerous tourists recklessly cutting down precious green trees, squandering the invaluable resources that nature bestowed upon us. To our dismay, there was a conspicuous absence of forest department personnel to enforce protection measures. This magnificent place, steeped in historical significance, appeared forsaken by time and government attention. It served as a sobering reminder of the urgent need for more effective conservation efforts and responsible tourism practices. As stewards of the environment, we must protect these natural wonders from reckless exploitation and preserve their splendor for generations to come.
Challenges of Connectivity and Communication
Moreover, the lack of modern amenities such as reliable telecom networks and accessible roads posed considerable challenges for both locals and tourists. The absence of government intervention in developing essential infrastructure in this area raised concerns about the welfare of the people who call Naranag their home.
Empowering the Local Community
Naranag, with its potential to be an ideal tourist destination, offers an opportunity to become a source of livelihood for the impoverished communities residing in the region. By providing employment opportunities, such as eco-tourism and other sustainable initiatives, the local populace can lead better lives while preserving their cultural heritage.
Promoting Responsible Tourism
To ensure that Naranag's charm remains intact for generations to come, it is essential to promote responsible tourism. Visitors must be encouraged to adopt eco-friendly practices, respecting the environment and its inhabitants. Additionally, initiatives for the preservation of the natural habitat and wildlife conservation must be put into action.
Unearthing History: The Ancient Monuments of Naranag
Naranag, a place ensconced in the lap of nature on the banks of Wangath Nallah, reveals a mesmerizing tale of ancient glory. As we set foot on this enchanting valley, we were greeted by an unexpected discovery an ancient notice board by the Archaeology Department, narrating the captivating history of this mystical site.
A Tribute to a Great King and Builder
The temples and structures that adorn Naranag are attributed to the reign of Lalitaditya Muktapida, a renowned king and visionary ruler who graced the land during the circa A.D. 724-61 era. Known for his grand vision and architectural prowess, Lalitaditya left behind an indelible legacy in the form of these awe-inspiring monuments.
The Past Names of Naranag
This ancient sanctuary was once referred to as Sodaratirtha, Nandikshetra, and Bhutesvara. The amalgamation of these names echoes the sacred significance that Naranag held for the people of yore. Standing testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, the temples have withstood the test of time.
Eastern Group: A Marvel of Enclosure
The Eastern Group of temples comprises a grand main shrine surrounded by eleven subsidiary shrines, all enclosed within a sacred enclosure. An intriguing feature of this group is a rectangular stone trough, found outside the northwest corner of the enclosure wall, which encloses a spring. The water from this spring was ingeniously channeled into the main shrine through a stone-built drain supported by sturdy stone posts. Near the spring, we discovered a small temple with a double-tiered pyramidical roof that had recently been exposed. The area surrounding this group beckons further exploration, promising more fascinating structures waiting to be uncovered.
A Bridge Between East and West
Nestled between the Eastern and Western Groups is the plinth of an ancient structure, possibly a pillared hall, along with the remains of a small shrine. This bridge-like connection highlights the interconnectedness of these majestic monuments, serving as a physical reminder of the harmonious coexistence of various architectural marvels.
Western Group: A Jewel on High Ground
Perched on a higher ground, the Western Group boasts six splendid temples, retaining their magnificence within a slate-stone wall. The main shrine stands tall with two entrances, exuding an aura of sacred grandeur. On the northern side, a massive retaining wall, constructed with immense granite blocks, safeguards the temples from the encroaching material from the hillside, preserving their timeless beauty.
Preserving the Treasures of Naranag
As we delved deeper into the history of Naranag, we recognized the significance of preserving these ancient marvels for future generations. The Archaeological Survey of India, under the guidance of the Superintending Archaeologist from Srinagar Circle, plays a crucial role in safeguarding and maintaining these precious gems of our past.
A Call to Action
The journey to Naranag not only allowed us to connect with the breathtaking natural landscapes but also provided a glimpse into the rich history and architectural brilliance of our ancestors. Naranag stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, transcending time and leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of history. As we bid adieu to this mystical site, we carry with us the responsibility to cherish and protect these ancient monuments, ensuring that their splendor continues to shine brightly through the sands of time.
Baba Dioum, the Senegalese Forestry Engineer, once said, "In the end, we will conserve only what we love; we will love only what we understand, and we will understand only what we are taught." These words beautifully encapsulate our responsibility as caretakers of the environment and the importance of understanding and preserving the natural world.
Let us internalize the wisdom gained from our journey to Naranag and take it to heart in our commitment to safeguarding Allah's creations. By joining hands and working together, we can transform Naranag into a sustainable and flourishing haven for both nature and its people. The divine beauty of Naranag calls us to protect and preserve it, ensuring that it remains a source of inspiration and solace for generations to come.
Author is a renowned Columnist & Motivational Speaker and an Associate Editor of the weekly publication 'Education Quill and can be reached at akhoon.aubaid@gmail.com
