Srinagar, Nov. 8 -- The historic Jamia Masjid Srinagar's Imam, Syed Ahmad Sayeed Naqshbandi, popularly known as Imam-e-Hai, has stepped down from his position after an illustrious tenure of 63 years. The revered cleric, who has been the spiritual head and the voice of the grand mosque for over six decades, has appointed his son as the new Grand Imam of Jamia Masjid, Nowhatta, Srinagar.

Insiders told KNS that a formal public announcement and Dastarbandi (ceremonial turban-tying) of the new Imam will be held on coming Friday at Jamia Masjid Srinagar, in the presence of prominent religious scholars, community elders, and a large gathering of devotees.

Imam Naqshbandi, known for his profound scholarship and dignified sermons, has led congre...