By Kamran Khamiso Khowaja
TANDO MUHAMMAD KHAN: Scholars, writers, and cultural figures gathered at a literary and religious conference in Tando Muhammad Khan on Sunday evening to reflect on the poetic and spiritual contributions of 14th-century Sufi saint and scholar Peer Sadar ul Din Shah Shamsi. Speakers emphasized his role in promoting peace, unity, interfaith harmony, and tolerance through mystic poetry.
Educationist and researcher Muhammad Yousif Noorani noted that Shah Shamsi’s message remains relevant in today’s era of intolerance, serving as a guide for religious and social harmony. He explained that the saint’s poetry, known as Ginan, is regarded as a significant genre in devotional literature. Composed in multiple languages including Sindhi, Hindi, Gujarati, and Sanskrit, Ginans carried local traditions and cultural references that helped spread Islam between the 14th and 18th centuries.
Broadcaster and poet Naseer Mirza said that from Shah Latif to Shah Shamsi, Sufi poets consistently conveyed a message of love and tolerance. He added that the teachings of Shah Shamsi could help restore moral values in society at a time when they are increasingly neglected.
Female speakers Hina Zahera, Marvi Abida, and Rubi Odejo called on the culture department to conduct more research into the literary contributions of Shah Shamsi and other poets from his lineage. Custodian of Shah Shamsi’s shrine in Uch Sharif, Syed Maherban Ali Shah, stressed that the saint’s poetry revolved around human values and morality, urging youth to follow the path of Sufi saints.
The conference concluded with recitals of Ginan and other mystical poetry, reaffirming the enduring influence of Shah Shamsi’s work.
