Bukkur Island’s Beacon of Sufism: The Shrine of Syed Sadar Ur Din Shah

Exploring the Spiritual Legacy of Bukkur Island: The Shrine of Syed Sadar Ur Din Shah

Tucked away on the tranquil Bukkur Island, cradled by the gentle currents of the Indus River, lies a monument of spiritual significance the Shrine of Syed Sadar Ur Din Shah. Celebrated as a luminary among the Sufi saints of Sindh, the mausoleum of Syed Sadar Ur Din Shah is a symbol of the timeless Sufi heritage that thrives in Pakistan.

A Haven of Spirituality This revered shrine, an oasis of serenity and piety, beckons believers from far and wide. With aspirations of grace, they converge here, affixing their prayers to the shrine’s barrier a ritualistic gesture that intertwines their deepest desires with the sacred.

The Urs: A Tapestry of Spiritual Unity Each year, the commemoration of Hazrat Sadar-ud-din Shah Badshah’s urs infuses the island with a vibrant tapestry of devout celebration. Over the span of three days, the atmosphere is charged with the pulsating beats of dhamal, the harmonious strains of mehfil-e-samaa, and the resonant recitations of Sufi poetry.  This hallowed ritual not only pays homage to the saint’s lasting impact but also unites a mosaic of traditions in a unified display of esteem and spiritual solidarity.

An Insight into Antiquity The shrine’s perch on Bukkur Island is a chronicle of the ages. Nestled between the cities of Sukkur and Rohri, the island has been a silent spectator to the rise and fall of empires. It serves as an intersection where spirituality converges with antiquity, offering a portal to the intricate narrative of Sindh’s cultural odyssey.

The Shrine of Syed Sadar Ur Din Shah transcends mere architectural grandeur; it embodies a dynamic chronicle of devotion, cultural richness, and historical depth. As a guiding light for seekers, it continues to foster a heritage of spiritual awakening and insight, reflecting the perpetual values of Sufism that reverberate across the ages.

Sources:

Sacred Shores: The Dual Pilgrimage of Rohri’s Isle

Charting the Course Through Rohri’s Environmental Hurdles: The Quest for Pure Air and Water

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Sacred Shores: The Dual Pilgrimage of Rohri’s Isle

In the shadow of Rohri lies a diminutive isle, a mere half-acre in size, that resists the flood's peak, remaining unsubmerged. Encircled by a protective barrier, this island is home to a sacred shrine, a place of convergence for thousands of devotees both Muslims and Hindus from every corner of Sindh during the spring months of March and April. For Muslims, it's a pilgrimage to pay homage to Khwaja Khizr, while Hindus revere Jind Pir (a derivative of 'Zinda', meaning 'Living', thus 'Living Saint').

Over time, the shrine's ownership sparked a dispute between the two faiths. Resolution came when Hindus relinquished their claim, establishing a separate shrine for Jind Pir along the riverbank in Sukkur. In a historic decree, the Public Works Department, via resolution No. 55-W-1 650 dated 10 April 1894, allocated approximately 16.50 ghuntas of land to the Sukkur Council for the Jind Pir Fakirs' trust, post a trust deed in favor of the then-leader, Bhai Balo. The trust ensured that he and his successors were entrusted with Rs 15000 to fulfill specific responsibilities linked to the shrine and its monuments.

An image from 1883 showcases the revered shrine of Khwaja Khizr, also known as Jind Pir among Hindus, situated on a small island in Sindh. The shrine, a pilgrimage site for thousands, symbolizes the unity of Muslim and Hindu faiths. It stands as a historical testament to the region’s rich spiritual traditions and the enduring legacy of the saints who have been the embodiment of the Indus River’s spirit.

A Muslim narrative recounts the tale of Shah Hussain (Saiful Muluk), a merchant from Delhi, who, along with his daughter, Badu-i-Jamal, journeyed down the Indus towards Mecca. Upon reaching Alore, they encountered Daluraj, the Hindu King, who, smitten by the daughter's beauty, sought her hand in marriage. His proposal was declined on the grounds of religious incompatibility. Undeterred, the king attempted to abduct her. However, during her prayers to Khwaja Khizr, her father was divinely instructed to release their boat. Miraculously, the river's course altered, flowing towards Rohri and ensuring their escape. In gratitude, Shah Hussain vowed to erect a shrine in honor of the saint who had safeguarded them. Guided by divine intervention, he chose a small island north of Bukkur for a mosque and mausoleum dedicated to Khwaja Khizr. Over time, devotees enriched the site, with some adorning the original tomb's door in silver. Regrettably, no remnants of these structures survive today.

An ancient painting from the year 952 A.D., corresponding to 341 Hijri, depicting the revered figure Khawaja Khizr. The artwork captures the historical and spiritual essence of the saint, known for his guidance and wisdom, in a traditional style reflective of the era.

Hindus associate Khawaja with Jind Pir, seen as the living embodiment of the Indus River, also known as Uderolal or Darya Shah. They honor him with the ritual lighting of lamps. The central edifice, whether tomb, temple, or cenotaph, features a niche representing the saint's seat, crowned by a stone slab with a Persian inscription, eloquently stating:

Contemporary representation of Khwaja Khizr, depicted as a wise figure with a spiritual aura, often portrayed in Islamic green attire, symbolizing his enduring presence and guidance through the ages.

"When this court was raised, the waters of Khizr embraced it; penned by Khizr himself in delightful verse." 

The inscription's date, deciphered from 'Dargah-i-Ali', points to the year AD 952. Nearby, a dilapidated brick mosque bears another inscription dating back to AH 1011 (AD 1602). Before British rule, the guardians of Satyan-jo-Asthan and Khwaja Khizr's shrine held lands as charitable grants, performing sacred duties around the monuments. This tradition was upheld by Sir Charles Napier. 

Confluence of Faiths: The Tale of Khwaja Khizr and Jind Pir

Protecting the Indus River Dolphins: A Call for Action

The Indus River and Rohri: A Historical and Cultural Connection

Echoes of Devotion: Unveiling the Mystical Heritage of Sindh’s Riverbank

Bridging Histories: The Indus River’s Role in Rohri and Sukkur’s Past

Rising Waters: A Chronicle of Pakistan’s Flood History

Mohenjo Daro: The Mound of the Dead Men

Mohenjo Daro: A Glimpse into the Past of Pakistan.

Mohenjo-daro Sindhi: موهن جو دڙو‎ Urdu: موئن جو دڑو Mound of the Dead Men Mohenjo Daro is an ancient city located in present-day Pakistan. It was built around 2500 B.C. on the flood plains of the Indus in what is now Pakistan. The city’s well-planned street grid and elaborate drainage system hint that its inhabitants were skilled urban planners with a reverence for the control of water.

      The city’s wealth and stature is evident in artefacts such as ivory, lapis, carnelian, and gold beads, as well as the baked-brick city structures themselves.  The city’s occupants were apparently modest, orderly, and clean, and preferred standardisation in pottery and tools of copper and stone. Seals and weights suggest a system of tightly controlled trade. The city lacked ostentatious palaces, temples, or monuments, and there was no obvious central seat of government or evidence of a king or queen. 

 A stone statue of a man with a beard and a circular headpiece, wearing a cloak with a distinctive design Ajrak, identified as the Priest-King from the ruined city of Mohenjo-daro in the Indus Valley Civilization

    The city’s decline remains a puzzle, but some experts believe that climate change and environmental degradation may have played a role.

     It is worth noting that Mohenjo Daro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered among the best preserved urban settlements in South Asia.

      Mohenjo Daro, an ancient city located in present-day Pakistan, was built around 2500 B.C. on the flood plains of the Indus River. It was the largest city of the Indus Civilisation and is believed to have thrived for a thousand years, profiting from trade and engineering feats like the Great Bath.

 The city’s well-planned street grid and elaborate drainage system hint that its inhabitants were skilled urban planners with a reverence for the control of water. The city’s wealth and stature is evident in artefacts such as ivory, lapis, carnelian, and gold beads, as well as the baked-brick city structures themselves. 

     The city’s occupants were apparently modest, orderly, and clean, and preferred standardisation in pottery and tools of copper and stone. Seals and weights suggest a system of tightly controlled trade.

     The city lacked ostentatious palaces, temples, or monuments, and there was no obvious central seat of government or evidence of a king or queen The city’s decline remains a puzzle, but some experts believe that climate change and environmental degradation may have played a role

• Mohenjo Daro: The Ancient City of the Indus Civilisation
• Mohenjo Daro: A Glimpse into the Past of Pakistan
• Mohenjo Daro: The Mound of the Dead Men
• Mohenjo Daro: A Testament to the Ingenuity of the Indus Valley Civilisation

How to get and do in Mohenjo Daro

 Is approximately 30 kilometre’s away from the nearest major city, Larkana.  The easiest way to get to Mohenjo Daro is by taking a direct flight from Sukkur Airport to Mohenjo Daro Airport.

Alternatively, you can drive along the Indus Highway between Karachi and Peshawar. Rohri / Sukkur Toll Plaza M5 Sukkur Hyderabad Motoways , The distance between Rohri and Mohenjo Daro is approximately 85.06 kilometres or 52.85 miles.Once you arrive at Mohenjo Daro. 

Sukkur Airport

 Sukkur Airport (IATA: SKZ, ICAO: OPSK), also known as Begum Nusrat Bhutto International Airport Sukkur, is a domestic airport located in Sukkur, Sindh, Pakistan. It is a medium-sized airport located about 8 km (5.0 mi) from the center of Sukkur and serves Sukkur and its surrounding areas; Khairpur, Jacobabad, Sibi, and Shikarpur. Officially Site is. https://www.piac.com.pk/

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Exploring Sadh Belo rohri: The Largest Hindu Temple in Pakistan

Sadh Belo (Sindhi: ساڌ ٻيلو, Urdu: سادھ بھيلو) It’s Sindhi Language  Meaning Island of Sadh

     Sukkur, a city in the Sindh province of Pakistan, is known for its historical and cultural attractions. One of the most remarkable places in Sukkur is Sadhu Belo, an island in the Indus River that is home to a highly revered Hindu temple complex. Sadhu Belo, which means the woods of the sage, is associated with the syncretic Udasi movement of Sikhism. The island is also famous for Teerath Asthan, which is the biggest Hindu temple in Pakistan.

The History of Sadhu Belo

The island of Sadhu Belo was once a forested island called Menak Parbat. According to legend, the island was visited by Lord Rama, the hero of the Hindu epic Ramayana, during his exile. The island was also a place of meditation for many sages and saints.

The most prominent figure in the history of Sadhu Belo is Baba Bankhandi Maharaj, an Udasi saint who founded the temple complex in 1823. Baba Bankhandi Maharaj was born as Balchand Sharma, and he came to Sindh from either Delhi or Nepal when he was 15 years old. He settled on the island and became known as the sage of the woods. He established a dhuni, a sacred fire, on the island and attracted many followers and devotees. He also built a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the supreme deity of Hinduism.

Baba Bankhandi Maharaj was a visionary and a philanthropist. He is credited with building a bridge across the Indus River, connecting Sukkur and Rohri . He also dug wells and planted trees on the island, making it a green and fertile place. He also performed many miracles and healed many people. He died in 1899 and his samadhi, or tomb, is located on the island.

The Architecture of Sadhu Belo

The temple complex of Sadhu Belo is spread over two interconnected islands: Sadhu Belo and Deen Belo. The complex has nine temples, a library, a dining area, a garden, and residences for monks and pilgrims. The temples are dedicated to various Hindu gods and goddesses, such as Shiva, Vishnu, Ganesha, Hanuman, Durga, and Kali. The temples are adorned with intricate marble work, colorful paintings, and statues. The complex also has a museum that displays relics and artifacts related to the history and culture of Hinduism and Sikhism in Sindh.

The most prominent temple in the complex is Teerath Asthan, which means the place of pilgrimage. Teerath Asthan is the biggest Hindu temple in Pakistan and can accommodate up to 10,000 people. The temple was built in 1938 by Sant Ganga Ram, a disciple of Baba Bankhandi Maharaj. The temple has a dome-shaped roof and a spire that rises above the river. The temple has a large hall where the main idol of Lord Shiva is installed. The temple also has a shivalinga, a symbol of Shiva, that is believed to have been brought by Baba Bankhandi Maharaj from the Himalayas. The temple is the site of many festivals and ceremonies, such as Shivratri, the birthday of Lord Shiva, and Bankhandi Mela, the death anniversary of Baba Bankhandi Maharaj.

The Significance of Sadhu Belo

Sadhu Belo is a sacred and peaceful place for Hindus and Sikhs in Pakistan and abroad. The island is a symbol of harmony and tolerance, as it welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds. The island is also a source of inspiration and education, as it preserves and promotes the rich heritage and traditions of Hinduism and Sikhism in Sindh. The island is also a place of service and charity, as it provides free food, water, and accommodation to the visitors and the needy.

Sadhu Belo is a unique and beautiful island that reflects the diversity and spirituality of Pakistan. It is a place that deserves to be visited and appreciated by everyone.

Source Books Sukkur and Online source 

Khwaja Khizr: The Mysterious Saint of Water

 Khwaja Khizr is a Sufi saint who is associated with water, wisdom, and eternal life. He is revered by Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs in various regions of South Asia, especially in Pakistan and India. He is also known by other names, such as Zinda Pir, Khwaja Khidr, Khizr Elias, and Khwaja Pir.

     According to some traditions, Khwaja Khizr is the son of Darya Khan, a ruler of Multan in the 15th century. He was a devout Muslim who spent his life in prayer and meditation. He also performed many miracles, such as healing the sick, reviving the dead, and controlling the waters. He is said to have a green complexion and a green cloak, symbolizing his connection to water and vegetation. He is also believed to have the power of invisibility and to appear and disappear at will.

     Some scholars identify Khwaja Khizr with al-Khidr, a figure mentioned in the Quran as a righteous servant of God who possessed great knowledge and mystic insight. He was the companion and teacher of the prophet Musa (Moses), who questioned him about his seemingly unjust actions, such as sinking a ship, killing a young man, and repairing a wall. Al-Khidr explained that his actions had hidden wisdom and benefits that Musa could not comprehend. Al-Khidr is also considered to be a prophet, an angel, or a wali (friend of God) by different Islamic sects and schools of thought.

     Another possible identification of Khwaja Khizr is with Utnapishtim, a character from the ancient Mesopotamian Epic of Gilgamesh. He was the survivor of a great flood that wiped out humanity, and he was granted immortality by the gods. He lived on an island at the mouth of the rivers, where he met Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk, who sought the secret of eternal life. Utnapishtim told him the story of the flood and tested him with various challenges, but Gilgamesh failed to achieve his goal.

     Khwaja Khizr is also associated with various other figures and legends from different cultures and religions, such as Saint George, Elijah, John the Baptist, Sargis the General, and Jhulelal. He is seen as a patron of travelers, sailors, fishermen, and seekers of spiritual knowledge. He is also a protector of rivers, lakes, springs, and wells. He is believed to appear to his devotees in times of need and to grant them blessings and guidance.

     Khwaja Khizr is honored and celebrated in various ways by his followers. He has many shrines and tombs dedicated to him, such as the Khwaja Khizr Tomb in Sonipat, India, the Zinda Pir Shrine in Sukkur, Pakistan, and the Khwaja Khizr Mosque in Lahore, Pakistan. He is also commemorated on the festival of Hıdırellez, which marks the arrival of spring and the meeting of Khwaja Khizr and Elijah. On this day, people make wishes, offer prayers, and perform rituals near water sources, hoping to receive the grace and favor of Khwaja Khizr.

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