Gyalu Rinchen ( Later Rinchen Shah ) was a 14th-century ruler originally believed to be a buddhist prince from Wakha region of Ladakh. Amid political instability in Kashmir, Gyalu Rinchen seized the opportunity to take control after King Suhadeva fled to Kisthwar during a period of invasions and unrest. He allied with and later overthrew the local ruler Ramachandra to establish his authority over Kashmir.
Gyalu Rinchen took the strategic decision to convert to Islam. Upon converting, he adopted the name Sadr'ud-Din Shah, popularly known as Rinchen Shah and became the first Muslim ruler of Kashmir. His reign marked the beginning of the Muslim Sultanate in Kashmir, initiating a period of religious and cultural transformation in the region.
Though his rule was short, his legacy endured as the foundation for the spread of Islam in Kashmir. He is remembered as a key figure in shaping the religious and political history of Kashmir, bringing about profound changes that influenced the region for centuries.
After a bit of research, persistence and random queries we were honored to come face to face with Rinchen Shah, the first Muslim ruler of Kashmir ( 1320-1323 ). The grave is nestled in a remote corner of Down Town Srinagar at a place called Bulbul Langer on the sides of the magnificent Jhelum.
