The Spiritual Legacy of Dargah Dastar Mubarak in Rohri: A Tribute to Sheikh Muhammad Hashim Siddiqui
Introduction
The city of Rohri in Sindh, Pakistan, holds a significant place in the spiritual landscape of the region, largely due to the revered Dargah Dastar Mubarak. This sacred shrine, founded by the esteemed Sufi saints Sheikh Muhammad Hashim Siddiqui and his father Sheikh Muhammad Ilyas, both prominent figures of the Qadiri Sufi order, is a beacon of spiritual enlightenment. This article delves into the history, spiritual significance, and legacy of the Darbar, focusing on its founders, their sacred relics, and their lasting impact on the community. It also highlights the contributions of Ghulam Siddique Qadiri, a descendant who carried forward their legacy with distinction.
The Founders: Sheikh Muhammad Ilyas and Sheikh Muhammad Hashim
Sheikh Muhammad Ilyas and his son Sheikh Muhammad Hashim were towering figures in the Qadiri Sufi order, renowned for their piety and devotion. According to historical accounts, both saints were in Baghdad until 1092 AH (1681 CE), after which they migrated to Rohri. While the exact date of their arrival in Rohri remains undocumented, it is known that they passed away within a year of each other. Sheikh Muhammad Ilyas departed in 1109 AH (1697 CE), as noted in Farrukh Bargah, while Sheikh Muhammad Hashim followed in 1110 AH (1698 CE).
Their spiritual stature is well-documented. Syed Sheikh Ali, son of Syed Sheikh Ahmed Al-Qadiri Al-Hamawi, described Sheikh Muhammad Hashim as a "righteous man yearning for the hereafter" in his ijaza (spiritual authorization). Similarly, Sheikh Ibrahim bin Sheikh Ahmed Qadiri used nearly identical words in his ijaza, underscoring Sheikh Muhammad Hashim’s profound spiritual rank. These endorsements highlight their revered status within the Qadiri order.
Sacred Relics of Darbar Dastar Mubarak
The Darbar is renowned for housing sacred relics associated with Hazrat Abdul Qadir Jilani, the founder of the Qadiri Sufi order. These relics, brought by Sheikh Muhammad Hashim and Sheikh Muhammad Ilyas, include:
- Dastar Mubarak (Holy Turban): A cherished relic of Hazrat Abdul Qadir Jilani.
- Chola (Robe): A sacred garment attributed to the saint.
- Tasbih (Prayer Beads): Used by Hazrat Abdul Qadir Jilani for devotion.
- Quranic Manuscript: A Surah of the Quran written in Kufic script by Hazrat Ali (RA).
- Quranic Manuscript by Imam Jafar Sadiq (RA): Another priceless relic preserved at the Darbar.
These relics are displayed for ziyarat (visitation) on the 11th night of Rabi-ul-Sani, an occasion marked by milad gatherings, recitations of naat and manqabat, and spiritual assemblies that draw devotees from far and wide. The sanctity of these relics underscores the Darbar’s role as a spiritual hub.
Historical Accounts and Spiritual Influence
The significance of the Darbar and its founders is well-documented in historical texts. Mir Ali Sher Qani, in his work Tuhfat-ul-Kiram, praises Haji Mir Khalifa Qadiri, a descendant of Sheikh Muhammad Hashim, as a figure of great spiritual eminence. The Darbar has been a center for spiritual gatherings, including monthly sufiana raag assemblies held on the 11th of each month. These gatherings, often attended by notable figures like Mir Abdul Qadir, a devoted disciple, continued until dawn, fostering a deep sense of spiritual connection.
Sir Richard Francis Burton, the famous explorer and scholar, visited Rohri in 1877 and documented his experience in Sindh Revisited. He describes being guided by Halimullah, a caretaker of the Darbar, who showed him the sacred relics, including the turban, robe, water bowl, and prayer beads of Hazrat Abdul Qadir Jilani, all wrapped in precious silk and brocade. Burton’s account highlights the reverence these relics commanded, noting that devotees offered donations to view them.
Ghulam Siddique Qadiri: A Legacy of Service
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| Ghulam Siddique Qadri with Chief Minister Jatoi at Karachi Airport (1988) |
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| Final Appearance – Honored Guest at the Football Tournament Final |
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| Ghulam Siddique Qadri with Emperor Pahlavi and Zulfikar Ali Bhutto – 20th Century Diplomatic Gathering |
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| Qadri Sahib Honoring the Winning Team – Football Final Ceremony |
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| Late Ghulam Siddique Qadri Sahib with Scouts – A Moment of Recognition and Respect |
The legacy of Sheikh Muhammad Hashim and Sheikh Muhammad Ilyas was carried forward by their descendants, notably Ghulam Siddique Qadiri (1921–2007). Born in Rohri, Ghulam Siddique was a man of multifaceted talents—a decorated police officer, a generous philanthropist, and a poet. His father, Najmuddin, was a Subedar in the British Indian Army and received a war award during World War I, which is preserved by his nephew Mahkumuddin.
Ghulam Siddique’s career in the police force was illustrious. After completing his matriculation from Bombay University in 1938, he began as a clerk in the SP Police Office and later joined the Postal Department. His career took a significant turn when he joined the Khairpur State Police as a Sub-Inspector, eventually moving to the Sindh Police. His notable achievements include:
- Training and Promotions: He completed advanced police training courses, including the Senior Cadet Course, Upper Police Course, and Advanced Inspector Course, securing the top position in West Pakistan during the latter. He rose through the ranks to become Inspector, DSP, SP, and eventually DIG in 1976.
- Bravery and Recognition: Ghulam Siddique was instrumental in apprehending notorious dacoits, earning him a rifle and 25 acres of land from the government.
- Philanthropy: Known for his generosity, he supported the poor by funding medical treatments, providing free medicines, and aiding underprivileged families. He was a regular participant in community events, often distributing cash prizes to athletes and supporting local sports.
His poetic contributions, such as the verses dedicated to Imam Hussain (RA), reflect his deep spiritual connection to the Qadiri order:
يا امام العاشقين سوُ سلام،
سيد الشھداء تون ناطق قرآن...
ڇا نہ ڪوڙي ھئي عبارت خطن ۾،
سوره قرآن جي لکيائون سٽن ۾...
يا امام العاشقين سوُ سلام
سيد الشهدا تون ناطق قران
ڇا نہ ڪوڙي ھئي عبارت خطن ۾
سوره قران جي لکيائون سٽن ۾
عهد ۽ انجام ڪهڙا زمين ۾ واه جو ڪوفين پاڙيا سڀ انجام
بي سبب شاه سان وڙھيا در ڪربلا
اصل ڪوفين ڊوھہ ھو دل ۾ دغا
ڪيئون ترارون تيز ۽ نيزا تکا
پئي وسيائون سڌا تير و ڪمان
پنهنجي صدقي ۽ شھيدن ٻاھتر
These lines, imbued with devotion, celebrate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (A.S) and the spiritual essence of Karbala.
References
- Qani, Mir Ali Sher. Tuhfat-ul-Kiram.
- Burton, Richard Francis. Sindh Revisited (1877).
- Encyclopedia Pakistan and Rohri’s Three Glorious Centuries for biographical details on Ghulam Siddique Qadiri.
- Farrukh Bargah for historical records on Sheikh Muhammad Ilyas’s passing.
- Contributor: Imdad Hussain Shah Kotahi Rohri.
