Baba Taj Sarwar Chishti: The Guiding Light of Chishtian
(Manam Jahangir, LAHORE)
Introduction :
Chishtian “The city of love” or “Shehr-e-Muhabbat” is in Bahawalnagar district of Punjab province, Pakistan .It is the second largest city of the district. The city is situated at 150 meters above sea level. Chishtian Mandi name is common among old aged persons due to the grain market, the economical hub of the city. The city is also called as Chishtian Shareef, name due to the presence of shrines of Sufi saints.
The city was founded by Sufi saint Taj Sarwar Chishti who was grandson of Sufi Saint Fariduddin Ganjshakar of Pakpattan. Hazrat Taj Sarwar made this place his adobe about 7 centuries ago and spread Islam to the local population of area. Later on, he embraced martyrdom and was buried there. The town is called Chishtian because of Chishti word in his name.
He was one of the earliest Muslim saints in the Subcontinent. Later about 250 years ago the great saint of Chishtia silsla (one of the spiritual chains of Sufism Khawaja Noor Muhammad Maharvi, born in neighbouring place called Mahar Sharif emerged as great Sufi from the same land. Both saints’ tombs are in the old city.Poorani ( Old ) Chishtian is called so as in the first quarter of 20th century a new planned Chishtian was built just two kilometer South-East of Poorani Chishtian. Many followers come every year on their tombs and create a spiritual scene.
The Chishti Order
The Chishti Order is a prominent Sufi order that originated in the 10th century in the city of Chisht, Afghanistan. It was Founded by Abu Ishaq Shami.The order gained prominence in the Indian subcontinent through Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, also known as Gharib Nawaz. He settled in Ajmer, India, and established the Chishti Order, emphasizing love, compassion, self-purification, and devotion to the Almighty and the Prophet Muhammad.
The Chishti Order is known for its inclusive and tolerant approach, respecting all faiths and traditions. Its emphasis on the inner dimension of faith (batin) has inspired numerous spiritual seekers. Notable Chishti Sufi saints include Baba Fariduddin Ganjshakar, Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, Hazrat Amir Khusrau, and Hazrat Taj Sarwar Chishti.
Hazrat Taj Sarwar Chishti
Hazrat Taj Sarwar Chishti was a revered Sufi saint of the Chishti order, known for his piety, wisdom, and spiritual prowess. Hazrat Taj Sarwar Chishti was born in the Punjab region of the Indian subcontinent. From a young age, he was drawn to spirituality and the pursuit of divine knowledge. He spent many years studying the Quran, Hadith, and other Islamic texts, and eventually became a disciple of his grandfather, Hazrat Fariduddin Ganjshakar.
Spiritual Journey and Settlement in Chishtian
After completing his spiritual training,. In the 14th century, Hazrat Taj Sarwar Chishti embarked on a journey to spread the message of Islam and Sufism particularly in Punjab region.As a grandson of the renowned Sufi saint Farid-ud-din Ganjshakar of Pakpattan, Tajuddin Chishti was destined to follow in his ancestor's footsteps.He traveled extensively throughout the region, preaching the importance of love, compassion, and self-purification. Eventually, he settled in the area now known as Chishtian, where he established a spiritual center and began to attract disciples.Tajuddin Chishti's descendants founded the village of Chishtian around 1265 CE. This humble settlement would eventually grow into a thriving city, attracting devotees and seekers of spiritual truth from far and wide. Tajuddin Chishti dedicated his life to spreading the message of Islam through his missionary work. His tireless efforts bore fruit, as many native tribes in the Punjab region accepted Islam under his guidance.
Dargah of Hazrat Taj Sarwar Chishti
The dargah (shrine) of Tajuddin Chishti, known as Roza Taj Sarwar, stands as a testament to his enduring legacy. Located in the heart of Chishtian, this sacred site attracts countless devotees seeking blessings, guidance, and spiritual enlightenment.
A Legacy of Devotion and Sacrifice
Tajuddin Chishti's life was marked by devotion, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to his faith. His martyrdom in a battle against opposing tribes only serves to underscore the depth of his conviction.
Hazrat Taj Sarwar Chishti's legacy is that of a true spiritual guide, who dedicated his life to spreading the message of love, compassion, and self-purification. His teachings emphasized the importance of:
• Love and devotion to the Almighty
• Self-purification and spiritual growth
• Compassion and service to humanity
• Tolerance and acceptance of all faiths and communities
Conclusion
Hazrat Taj Sarwar Chishti's life and legacy serve as a beacon of inspiration for all those seeking spiritual growth and self-realization. His teachings continue to guide devotees on the path of love, compassion, and self-purification, and his tomb remains a sacred place of pilgrimage for all those seeking spiritual enlightenment.
References:
1. Journal of Historical studies ,Vol 3 No.2 ,July – December 2017 ( 104-126 ), Chishtian: A survey of history.
2. Sufi Maytrs of love : the chishti order in south Asia and beyond.
3. The Chishtis: a living light ,Muneera Haeri , Oxford University press 2000.
4. Interviews conducted with mureeds and dargah runners .