Origin of Shiva’s Worship in Kashmir

 Origin of Shiva’s Worship in Kashmir

Before we speak of sages deep, of Abhinavagupta’s flame,

Let us trace the ancient stream from where Śiva’s glory came.

In Kashmir’s dawn, the songs were sung of powers high and wide,

Of Śiva and His radiant Shakti ever at their side.

The Nilamata Purāṇa tells of gods in varied guise,

Of Ganesa, Vedic lords, and Buddhas yet to rise.

Yet through the crowd of many forms, one presence shone above—

The Lord of dance, of death and birth, and Parvati, His love.

The Nagas dwelt by mountain streams, by cloud and serpent known,

Their faith was entwined with ancient rites and mysteries of their own.

Old Nikumbha, spirit-king, was honoured in their song,

Yet through it all, fair Śiva’s name was whispered deep and long.

Though Buddhism touched the valley’s rim, its shadow faint and small,

The primal pulse of Śiva’s grace still echoed overall.

A mingling of the old and new, of earth and sky and fire,

Thus, Kashmir’s heart was shaped and stirred by Śiva’s vast desire.

Sundra

Sham Misri