Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai

The Urs of great poet & Sufi of Sindh-Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai Hala

Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai, often revered as one of the greatest Sufi poets of Sindh, holds a significant place in the cultural and spiritual history of Pakistan. Born in 1689 in Hala Haveli, Sindh, he belonged to a prominent and scholarly family.

His father, Shah Habib, was a well-known spiritual leader, and from a young age, Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai was drawn to spirituality and the mystical teachings of Sufism.

Early Life and Education

Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai was immersed in the teachings of the Quran and Islamic jurisprudence early on, thanks to his father’s influence. However, it was his deep love for nature, music, and poetry that truly shaped his spiritual journey.

Unlike many scholars of his time, Latif’s education was not limited to formal schooling; he traveled extensively, seeking wisdom from nature and the common folk. His travels took him across the deserts, mountains, and rivers of Sindh, where he interacted with people from various walks of life, absorbing their stories, struggles, and spiritual practices.

Spiritual Journey

Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai’s poetry is deeply rooted in Sufi mysticism. He was profoundly influenced by the teachings of Sufi saints like Hazrat Shahbaz Qalandar and Hazrat Makhdoom Nooh. His poetry, compiled in the famous “Shah Jo Risalo,” is a testament to his spiritual journey, reflecting themes of divine love, devotion, and the search for God.

His verses are in Sindhi, and they beautifully blend metaphysical concepts with everyday life, making his work accessible to both the learned and the common people.Latif’s spiritual philosophy emphasized the oneness of God and the importance of love, compassion, and humility in the pursuit of divine truth.

He believed in the unity of all religions and preached tolerance and understanding among different communities. His teachings resonated with the masses, who found solace and guidance in his words.

Literary Contributions

Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai’s poetry is a rich tapestry of Sindhi folklore, music, and Sufi philosophy. The “Shah Jo Risalo” is his magnum opus, a collection of his poems that are divided into chapters, each dedicated to a different aspect of life and spirituality.

His poetry explores themes like the love of Radha and Krishna, the story of Sassi and Punnu, and the struggles of Marui, all of which are allegories for the soul’s journey towards the divine.

What sets Latif’s poetry apart is his ability to convey deep spiritual truths through simple, relatable language. His verses often revolve around the life of ordinary people, especially women, whom he saw as embodiments of purity and devotion. Through his poetry, he advocated for the dignity and respect of women, a message that was revolutionary for his time.

First publication of Shah jo Risalo

The Shah Jo Risalo was first published in 1866 by German philologist Ernest Trumpp, preserving Shah Abdul Latif’s poetry. German philologist Ernest Trumpp, posthumously honored with the Latif Award, authored the first Sindhi grammar book. Trumpp, sent to India in 1854 as a missionary, published his work in Leipzig, significantly contributing to Sindhi linguistic studies and preserving Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai’s poetry.

Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai was a revered saint, spiritual scholar, and one of the greatest poets of all time. His poetry, composed in the Sindhi language, is celebrated for its profound spiritual depth and cultural richness. He masterfully wove together the essence of seven iconic folk tales

• Umer-Marvi
• Noori-Jam Tamachi
• Sasui-Punhoon
• Moomal-Ranu
• Leela-Chanesar
• Suhni-Mehar
• Sorath-Raidyach

Each of the folk embodying timeless themes of love, sacrifice, and devotion. His work not only enriched Sindhi literature but also left an indelible mark on the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region.

Legacy

Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai passed away in 1752, but his legacy lives on. His final resting place in Bhit Shah, Sindh, has become a pilgrimage site for his followers, who gather every year to celebrate his life and teachings. The three-day annual urs, starting on Safar 14, is a major event in Sindh, where devotees from all over the region come to pay homage to the Sufi saint.

Latif’s influence extends beyond the spiritual realm; his poetry has played a crucial role in shaping Sindhi literature and music. His verses are sung in the traditional “waee” style, a form of Sindhi music that has been preserved and passed down through generations. His teachings continue to inspire poets, musicians, and spiritual seekers, making him an enduring symbol of Sindhi culture and Sufi mysticism.

Public Holiday in Sindh

In recognition of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai’s immense contribution to Sindhi culture and spirituality, the provincial government of Sindh has declared a public holiday on August 20, 2024, to mark his annual urs. According to a notification issued by the government, all government offices, autonomous bodies, semi-autonomous bodies, corporations, and local councils under the administrative control of the Sindh government will remain closed on this day, except for essential services.

Additionally, all government and private schools, colleges, and universities under the administrative control of the Sindh government will also remain closed.The declaration of a public holiday underscores the importance of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai’s legacy in the province. It provides an opportunity for people to reflect on his teachings, which continue to promote values of love, tolerance, and unity in a world that often seems divided.

Bottom line

Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, born on November 18, 1689, in Hala, Sindh, was not only a revered poet but also a profound saint whose work has profoundly influenced Sindhi culture. His poetry, rich in spiritual depth and cultural heritage, reflects his unparalleled understanding of divine love and human emotion. Is status as a great poet and saint is honored with a public holiday on August 20 each year, celebrating his enduring legacy and the deep impact he has had on Sindhi society. Bhitai passed away on January 1, 1752