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Murshid Syed Nadir Ali Shah | |
|---|---|
 Tomb of Syed Nadir Ali Shah inSehwan | |
| Born | Murshid Nadir Ali Shah 1897 Gandaf, DistrictSwabi (modern dayPakistan) |
| Residence | Sehwan Sharif,Sindh |
| Died | 8 October 1974 Sehwan,Sindh,Pakistan |
| Venerated in | Islam |
| Years active | 1931–1974 |
| Known for | Sufism,asceticism,divine love,philanthropy,herbal medicine |
| Predecessor | Murshid Deedar Ali Shah (1926–1931) |
| Successor | Murshid Arif Ali Shah (1974–2022) |
| Parent | Syed Ghulam Shah(father) |
Syed Nadir Ali Shah, (1897 – 8 October 1974) (Sindhi:سيد نادر علي شاهه;Urdu:سید نادر علی شاہ) popularly known asMurshid Nadir Ali Shah, was aSufi saint of the Qalandariyya Sufi order of Islam, a Muslim preacher, ascetic, mystic, philanthropist and humanitarian. Born inGandaf in the north-west of theIndian subcontinent, he eventually settled inSehwan Sharif,Sindh. He was a spiritual descendant of the well-regarded Sufi saintLal Shahbaz Qalandar and the custodian of the revered Sufi Khanqah, Kafi Sakhi Sarwar located in Sehwan Sharif.[1][2][3] Nadir Ali Shah's legacy primarily revolves around his distinction as one of the most remarkable figures among the saints of the Qalandariyya Sufi order. He is renowned for his pursuits in Islamic preaching, mysticism, and asceticism.[4] Beyond his spiritual contributions, he is recognized for his substantial efforts in advancing human welfare and uplifting the underprivileged, in line with the teachings of the Qalandariyya Sufi order ofIslam.[5][6] Notably, he also served as the custodian of the shrine of the Sufi saintAbdullah Shah Ghazi in Karachi.[1][7][8]
He was born inGandaf, DistrictSwabi in 1897 to a Pashtun Syed family.[9][10][11] He received his early education from his father Syed Ghulam Shah.[12] He was young when his father died.[12]
In his early youth, he obtained permission from his mother and embarked on a long journey of finding aMurshid (spiritual guide) for himself.[3] He travelled for years and covered the entire Indian subcontinent, seeking knowledge from saints and scholars inLahore,Sirhind Sharif,Delhi,Ajmer andQuetta before finally settling inSehwan Sharif. During his stay inQuetta, he had recurring dreams of seeingLal Shahbaz Qalandar, directing him to reach Sehwan Sharif as soon as possible.[2]
Finally, in Sehwan Sharif, at the Sufi centre near the Shrine of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, he met his long-awaitedMurshid (spiritual mentor), who was destined to have the greatest influence on his life, Deedar Ali Shah.[13] Murshid Deedar Ali Shah, the successor of the Qalandariyya Sufi order and custodian of the Sufi centre named Kafi Sakhi Sarwar, warmly greeted him, as he was already anticipating and eagerly awaiting his arrival that day. Nadir Ali Shah then formally pledged his allegiance to his spiritual teacher, who later appointed him as his successor. Thus, after Deedar Ali Shah's death in 1931, Nadir Ali Shah became the custodian, and was succeeded with the title of Murshid Nadir Ali Shah.[9][13]
Nadir Ali Shah adopted an ascetic lifestyle, dedicating much of his life to meditation, prayer, and the remembrance of God.[14] He reportedly gave up solid food early in life and subsisted on a liquid diet. For a period of two years, he lived in a cave nearSehwan Sharif, engaged in spiritual practices and devotion.[3][4] He dressed in the traditional attire of faqirs, including a Qalandari cap—a cotton cap with flaps covering the ears.[2][15] Known for his spiritual discipline, he was referred to as "an advanced pilgrim" due to his intense devotional journey.[16] Nadir Ali Shah is said to have fasted continuously for fifty years, spending his days in fasting and his nights in prayer. He would often spend long hours in supplication (dua), sitting with his hands raised in prayer.[9][14]
Nadir Ali Shah held the distinguished position of being the most prominent disciple of Murshid Deedar Ali Shah within the Qalandariyya Sufi order of Islam, a lineage attributed to Lal Shahbaz Qalandar. This Sufi order was connected to the custodianship of the Sufikhanqah known as Kafi Sakhi Sarwar in Sehwan Sharif. Before his death in 1931, Deedar Ali Shah appointed Nadir Ali Shah as themurshid (spiritual leader) of this Sufi order.[7][13] His tenure spanned 43 years until his death in 1974.[17] His life was characterized by a profound dedication to serving humanity, through ethical, spiritual, and pragmatic means. As a murshid, Nadir Ali Shah played a pivotal role in inspiring a multitude of individuals to transform their lives. His teachings and actions motivated many to attain spiritual prominence and contribute to society through acts of compassion and service, including the provision of food to the hungry.[18] Like his predecessors, he was reverently referred to as the "Ruler of The Brotherhood."[19] Following his death, Murshid Arif Ali Shah succeeded him in 1974.[7][11][13] The legacy of Nadir Ali Shah and his disciples continues to be recognized and respected. Notably, British author and Literature Nobel LaureateV. S. Naipaul visited Nadir Ali Shah's Sufi center in Sehwan Sharif during a trip toPakistan in 1979. Naipaul recognised the community of his disciples as a group of friendly, delighted people with brightness in their eyes, who "knew they served the poor and God".[18] They had chosen a "life of sacrifice and service".[20] The disciples who followed Nadir Ali Shah's teachings attained remarkable spiritual heights, reflecting the enduring impact of his teachings and practices.[5]
Nadir Ali Shah also held the role of custodian for the shrine of the two grandsons ofAbdul Qadir Gilani. This shrine, dedicated to Mahmood ibnAbdul Razzaq Gilani and Ahmed ibn Abdul Razzaq Gilani, is situated to the west ofSehwan city and is alternatively known as Pir Pota Mazar or Dargah Masoom Pak.[13] An annual congregation, known asurs, is held in their honor on the 10th ofRabi' al-Thani, drawing a significant number of attendees.[13][21]
Furthermore, Nadir Ali Shah served as the custodian of the shrine of the 8th-century Sufi saintAbdullah Shah Ghazi, located in Karachi.[7][8] During his tenure, he contributed to the construction, expansion and beautification of the shrine.[5][7][8][22] He constructed the iconic green and white striped dome of the shrine, which became a recognizable emblem of the city. He oversaw the addition of various facilities on the shrine premises, including a mosque, a langar khana (free kitchens), a qawwali hall, and a guest house. A striking feature of his contributions was the establishment of a long stairway leading to the shrine, which adorned the top of a sandy hill.[1][5][8][23][24] A meaningful connection has been observed between the shrine ofAbdullah Shah Ghazi in Karachi and Syed Nadir Ali Shah's Sufi order inSehwan Sharif. This bond underscores the enduring spiritual impact of Nadir Ali Shah's custodianship across different shrines and locations.[1][25]
Situated just a brief stroll away from Qalandar's shrine in Sehwan Sharif, theKafi stands as an ancient spiritual institution and dwelling place for the dervishes of the Qalandariyya Sufi order of Islam.[9]
TheKafi is a reveredKhanqah that holds a special place for the Qalandariyya Sufi Order. It's known as theKafi of Murshid Nadir Ali Shah, expanded under his guidance with heightened spirituality and humanitarian efforts, including the establishment oflangar. Nearby is the revered site ofSultan Sakhi Sarwar's worship, giving rise to the name Kafi Sakhi Sarwar.[5]
TheKafi holds historical significance, dating back to the era of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar.[5] The custodian ofKafi, referred to as themurshid or spiritual guide, leads the disciples known asmalangs (dervishes) andsawalis (aspirants).[5][11][10] Themalangs are devoted and well-organized in their cause, numbering over two hundred and fifty as of the 1980s.[5][11] Some of them serve at the shrine ofAbdullah Shah Ghazi and other shrines.[5] Notably, thesemalangs include highly educated and prosperous individuals who have embraced a "life of sacrifice and service".[20] The Sufi order has garnered hundreds of thousands of followers worldwide.[14]
Themurshid, as the spiritual leader, traces their spiritual lineage and descent from the revered Lal Shahbaz Qalandar.[2] The premises hold the shrines of the ten previousmurshids, who are held in high regard for their exceptional contributions and service, having been revered as "rulers or governors of the brotherhood".[19] Murshid Nadir Ali Shah, died in 1974 at the age of seventy-seven. He was succeeded by his most distinguished disciple, Murshid Arif Ali Shah, who, in addition to being a spiritual leader, was a certified MBBS doctor.[5] Murshid Arif Ali Shah held the throne and crown until his death in 2022 at the age of seventy-nine.[26]
The QalandariTariqa, or Sufi order, places a strong emphasis on the struggle with oneself, the purification of the heart, and the nourishment of the soul. These spiritual goals are achieved through prayers and remembrance, coupled with the concept ofkhidmat, which signifies dedicated service to humanity.[5]
TheKafi serves as a spiritual institution where the education and training ofQalandar's devotees have been carried out for more than seven hundred years. Throughout the centuries, theKafi had the esteemed privilege of caretaking of the sacred shrine ofLal Shahbaz Qalandar, ensuring its proper maintenance.[2][4][11][10] Additionally, theKafi has been a source of free food and water for pilgrims and visitors toSehwan Sharif.[5][27]
Upon the passing of Murshid Deedar Ali Shah in 1931, his spiritual successor, Murshid Nadir Ali Shah, took on the mantle of overseeing theKafi and its sacred responsibilities.[13] Murshid Nadir Ali Shah proved to be a wise, compassionate, and generous leader, known for his profound hospitality and simplicity.[5][14] He devoted his life to alleviating hunger and initiated the "free food and water program," which was expanded to cater not only to the underprivileged residents of the town and its surroundings but also to those in Karachi and other cities.[5][28][29]
Amidst their daily routine of prayers and remembrance of God, the devotedmalangs of theKafi tirelessly managed the distribution of food and water to the impoverished residents of the town and its suburbs. Despite the scorching heat of Sehwan, kneading large amounts of flour to provide bread for the needy was no small feat, but the dedication of the Qalandar's followers allowed this service to continue year-round. Water, an essential commodity, was sourced from the Indus River, and the process involved considerable effort and hardship.[5] Nadir Ali Shah also built a pilgrim hostel for the travellers. He was honoured and held in high esteem by the people.[11][29]
Even when faced with rising wheat prices, Murshid Nadir Ali Shah remained resolute in his commitment to the langar service, expressing unwavering faith in Divine providence. He firmly believed that this charitable endeavor would endure, regardless of the cost of wheat, as it was a sacred offering for the sake of Allah.[5]
Following him, under the guidance of Murshid Arif Ali Shah, theKafi continued to expand its services. It provided daily meals to thousands, and in response to the demands of the modern era, the dervish lodge adapted by delivering free rations during the COVID-19 lockdown.[9][28][29][30][31]
Nadir Ali Shah, a prominentMurshid of the Qalandariyya Sufi order ofIslam, was known for his profound teachings that touched upon various aspects of spirituality, human conduct, and service to humanity. His impact on his followers and the broader community was significant, as his teachings resonated with people across the world.
Nadir Ali Shah's teachings left a profound impact on a significant number of individuals worldwide. His emphasis on spirituality, devotion, knowledge, and service resonated with many, drawing them towards a path of spiritual growth and humanitarianism. His legacy lives on through those who continue to follow and practice his teachings, reflecting the enduring influence of his spiritual guidance within the Qalandariyya Sufi order of Islam.[5][14]
Murshid Nadir Ali Shah significantly expanded the philanthropic efforts of his dervish lodge, envisioning a comprehensive framework to provide free access to essential resources such as quality food, healthcare, education, shelter, safe water, and sanitation for all marginalized sectors of society. He placed a strong emphasis on addressing the issue of hunger, recognizing its potential to positively impact people's lives. He firmly believed that ensuring two nutritious meals a day could pave the way for children and young adults to attain an education, fostering optimism for a more promising future. Additionally, he recognized that food security could empower laborers and families with modest incomes to allocate resources towards health and other necessities, thereby enhancing their spiritual, social, and emotional well-being.[5]
During the 1930s, Murshid Nadir Ali Shah laid the groundwork for a volunteer organization with the primary goal of alleviating hunger and malnutrition.[5] This initiative was inspired by his commitment to making a positive impact on society. As part of this effort, he initiated alangar khana, or free meal service program, in Sehwan Sharif. This program had a twofold objective: not only to address immediatemalnutrition and hunger concerns but also to tackle broader issues of age,gender, and socioeconomic disparities in accessing nourishment. Today, the langar khana continues to provide free meals to thousands of individuals daily, catering to men, women, and children alike.[5][6][27][29][32]
Moreover, he extended the scope of the free meal service program to encompass the shrine of Abdullah Shah Ghazi inKarachi.[1][5]
Nadir Ali Shah possessed expertise in herbal medicine and served as a skilled physician. Individuals from distant and nearby locations would travel to seek treatment from him.[12]
Like other major Sufi orders, the Qalandariyya emphasizes an unbroken spiritual lineage, orsilsila, tracing its knowledge back to the Islamic Prophet Muhammad through his companionAli (d. 661).
The spiritual lineage of the Kafi Sakhi Sarwar within the Qalandariyya order, along with the years they served, includes:
This lineage reflects the continuous transmission of spiritual wisdom, where the conclusion of one Murshid's term ushers in the start of the next, creating an unbroken line of succession This unbroken chain is rooted in Prophet Muhammad, extending through Ali and Lal Shahbaz Qalandar.[5][9]
Nadir Ali Shah died in the early hours of Tuesday, October 8, 1974 (21stRamadan 1394 AH) at the age of 77.[17] His funeral prayer took place within the precincts of theShrine of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar and saw the attendance of a significant gathering. Qazi Muhammad Murad led the funeral prayer. He was laid to rest beside his spiritual guide, Murshid Deedar Ali Shah, in Sehwan Sharif.[13]
Nadir Ali Shah's successor after his death in 1974 was his nephew, Murshid Arif Ali Shah, who continued his legacy until his passing in 2022 at the age of seventy-nine.[5][13][26][33] These spiritual leaders left behind a profound impact, with hundreds of thousands of devoted followers in Pakistan and around the world, known for their unwavering commitment to God and service to humanity.[14] Murshid Arif Ali Shah was succeeded by his sons.[26][33]
Notably, theLangar khana (free food facility) of Nadir Ali Shah remains a focal point of his legacy. Situated within the dervish lodge also known asKafi in Sehwan Sharif, this charitable center continues to provide three meals a day to thousands of individuals each day.[9][29][34] This noble endeavor virtually sustains the entire impoverished population of the town, as well as travelers passing through.[29][30][31][32][35] The facility is manned by dozens of devotedmalangs (dervishes), who tirelessly prepare and distribute the food.[5]
In addition, his followers have established numerous free drinking waterSebils throughout Sehwan Sharif, offering cold water to countless individuals each day.[13] Moreover, the center offers accommodations for travelers in its designated travelers' lodge. A free health center is also established, providing medical treatment to individuals from both local and distant areas.[9][29][32][33][36]
Prominent poets ofPakistan spanning various eras have showcased their reverence and affection for Murshid Nadir Ali Shah through a myriad ofqasidas (panegyrics) and manqabats (devotional poems) composed in languages likeUrdu,Sindhi,Punjabi,Balochi, andPashto. Eminent artists includingNoor Jehan,Shaukat Ali, Ahmed Khan, andKhyal Muhammad have commemorated and paid homage to him through their Qawwalis.
EMI Pakistan marked his legacy by releasing an album of devotional songs titled "Qawwali Hazrat Syed Nadir Ali Shah" on the occasion of his 40th death anniversary.[37]
TheDargah (shrine) of Nadir Ali Shah is situated within the premises of his dervish lodge, located southeast of the Shrine of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar. The iconic white dome is highlighted by a green ceramic tile border.[38] The dome, hemispherical in shape, crowns a square edifice adorned with four minarets, all embellished with mosaic ceramic tilework. A harmonious array of mosaic tilework on the exterior walls forms horizontal lines of yellow, green, red, black, and blue tiles against a white background, extending from bottom to top. This arrangement evokes a sense of pure delight.[19] Inside the shrine, intricate glasswork graces the lofty ceiling and dome. Turquoise ceramic tiles and delicate glasswork adorn the interior walls, while Quranic verses are elegantly carved into the glasswork on the northern wall. A significant number of people visit the shrine daily to pay tribute to Nadir Ali Shah.[18]
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