Kashmir , October 6,2025 -In a heartwarming display of Kashmiriyat — the age-old tradition of coexistence and mutual respect — a young Kashmiri Muslim man, Aaqib Rasool, from Turkapora, Handwara in Kupwara district of North Kashmir, discovered an ancient stone Shivling while tilling his horticultural land and promptly handed it over to the authorities.
The rare archaeological find, believed to be of great historical and religious significance, was reported to the Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, J&K by Aaqib himself. Responding swiftly, Mr. Kuldeep Krishan Sidha (JKAS), Director of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, deputed a specialised team to Handwara. With the cooperation of the District Administration and District Police, the ancient Shivling was safely retrieved and taken into the department’s custody.
The Department has confirmed that the artifact will undergo detailed age and feature assessment before being preserved and displayed at the SPS Museum, Srinagar for public viewing. Recognising his integrity and respect for heritage, the department announced that Aaqib Rasool will be felicitated for his exemplary act of cultural sensitivity.
This gesture beautifully underscores the enduring spirit of religious harmony in Kashmir, where Islam and Shaivism have flourished side by side for centuries. Such instances remind the world that Kashmir continues to restore its old glory as a land of peace, tolerance, and shared heritage — truly, the Land of Lord Shiva.
