Government Takes Up Proposal to Preserve Allama Anwar Shah Kashmiri’s Ancestral House in Lolab

Noor Ul Hassan Andrabi

Srinagar: The office of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has taken cognisance of a proposal submitted by Lolab MLA Qaysar Jamshaid Lone seeking preservation of the ancestral residence of noted Islamic scholar Allama Anwar Shah Kashmiri at Warnow in Lolab valley of north Kashmir.

Official sources told Alfaaz – The Words, that the matter has been forwarded to the Culture Department for examination and preparation of a detailed conservation project at the earliest. The proposed initiative aims to safeguard the historic structure and develop it as a heritage site in recognition of the scholar’s intellectual legacy.

Allama Anwar Shah Kashmiri, born in 1875 in Lolab, is widely regarded as one of the most distinguished Islamic scholars from the region. He studied and later taught at the renowned Darul Uloom Deoband and authored several influential works on Islamic theology and Hadith, including commentaries on Sahih al Bukhari. His scholarly contributions extended across the Indian subcontinent and he remained an influential figure in Islamic academic circles until his death in 1933.

The ancestral residence associated with the scholar is believed to be around 150 years old. The structure, located in Anwarabad area of Lolab, is a traditional three storey timber building constructed according to the vernacular architectural style of Kashmir that incorporates seismic responsive design features. Over the years, the building has suffered damage due to lack of maintenance and structural deterioration, prompting repeated calls from residents and scholars for its conservation.

Earlier initiatives had also proposed preserving the structure under a heritage conservation programme, recognising its historical and cultural significance. However, the site has continued to remain in a fragile condition despite the recognition of its importance.

Officials said the latest move to involve the Culture Department is expected to pave the way for a formal conservation plan that could restore the historic house and develop it as a landmark linked to the intellectual heritage of Kashmir.

The proposed preservation of the residence is also seen as an important step towards promoting cultural awareness and recognising the contributions of scholars from the region whose works have had influence far beyond Kashmir.