Imam Baqir's Birth Anniversary & His Golden Quotes

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

The first day of Islamic month Rajab also marks the birth anniversary of fifth Imam Muhammad Baqir(Baqar).Also called Abu Jafar and  known as al-Baqir( the one who opens knowledge) his full name was Muhammad bin 'Ali bin al-Husain bin Ali bin Abi Talib. His father was Imam  Zain -ul- Abdeen and he was succeeded by his son Jafar Sadiq as the 6^th Imam. He was the first Imam descended from both grandsons of Holy Prophet Muhammad i.e. Hasan Ibn Ali and Hussain ibn Ali He is revered by Muslims for his religious leadership, and respected for his knowledge and Islamic scholarship as a jurist in Medina .He was born in Medina around 56 AH and was present at battle of Karbala in 61 Hijri as a four year old child.

Imamis believe that the title of fifth Imam Baqir al- ilm was not an ordinary one, for   it was given to him by the Holy Prophet. According to al -Kulyani, Prophet’s only living companion Jabir would sit in the mosque and cry: "Ya baqir al-ilm, Ya baqir al-ilm". Although Medinians thought that Jabir was insane, he assured them that Prophet had told him: "O Jabir! You will meet a man from my family who will have the same name and the same characteristics as mine. He will split open knowledge extensively.al-Kulyani further records that Jabir met al-Baqir when passing a Quran school. He saw that the imam was still a child, and examined him to see if he had the features of the Holy Prophet.  Jabir approached him, kissed his head and swore by his father and mother that Prophet had sent greeting upon him.

Imam Baqar led a life fully dedicated to scholarly pursuits and led the community carefully against a hostile regime. His sayings are pearls of wisdom for the whole mankind. People can lead a meaningful and purposeful life by following the maxims given by the fifth Imam. Some of his quotes relating to the betterment of human beings are being reproduced so as to enable people make the world a better place to live in. This will also be a befitting manner to recall him on his birth anniversary.  

·        “One who does not cultivate patience for confronting the troubles of life becomes weak.”

·        “When you hear knowledge, then put it into effect. Let your hearts be wide. For the person with the heart that does not encompass his abundant knowledge makes Satan powerful over him. If Satan disputed with you, then dispute with him through what you know.”

• ·   The height of perfection is excellence in the understanding of the religion, endurance in hardships and administration of the affairs of life according to one's means, in the right measure.
• ·        I admonish you regarding five things; if you are wronged, do not commit wrong doing to others, if you are betrayed, do not betray anyone, if you are called a liar, do not be furious, if you are praised, do not be jubilant, if you are criticized do not fret and think of what is said in criticism, if you find in yourself what is criticized about you, then you are falling down in the eyes of God; when you are furious about the truth, it is much greater calamity then your falling down in the eyes of the people. And if you are opposite of what is said (in criticism) about you, then it is a merit you acquired without having to tire yourself in obtaining it.
• ·        The scholar who derives benefit from his knowledge is better than 70,000 devotees.
• ·        "Indeed if you are good in teaching the people and do not show pride towards them, then Allah will increase you from His favor. However if you prevent them from learning your knowledge, then it is incumbent upon Allah, the Great and Almighty, to deprive you of knowledge and its splendor and to drop your position from the hearts of people."
• ·        "I hate the person who is jobless and who merely lies on his back and says, 'O Allah! Give me sustenance! He asks Allah to do him a favor while the small ant comes out of its ant colony to seek its livelihood!"
• ·      A man giving in alms one piece of silver in his lifetime is better for him than giving one hundred when about to die 
• ·    Nobody remains safe from sin unless he guards his tongue.
• ·    The one who remains patient over its unpleasantness in the world enters the paradise.(References available on request. Photo Courtesy Google Images ) 

Rajab-Beginning of Spiritual Season

Dr. Mazhar Naqvi

Rajab is one of the four sacred months of Islam. It is also a month of many special days and also serves as a spirituality preparatory month along with Shaaban before Ramadan (Ramzan).It is also stated that the Holy Prophet's 'Miraj' (ascension to heaven) has also taken place on the 27th day of Rajab. For Imamis, Rajab has special attraction as their first, fifth, ninth and tenth Imams were born on this auspicious month.Another important date for Imamis is  Rajab 3rd and 28thwhile on 3rd Imam Ali Naqi was martyred,on 28th Imam Hussain had left Medina to proceed to Karbala. 

 About the importance of Rajab, the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad himself has declared ““Verily, the month of Rajab is the Great Month of Allah. No other month can be as sacred and as virtuous as this month…Therefore, if one observes fasting on one day of this month, he will bindingly win the grand pleasure of Almighty Allah and will be taken away from the displeasure of Almighty Allah, and the gates of hellfire will be closed in his face.”

Repeating Laa ilaha illAllah (There is no God but Allah) 1000 times in the entire month of Rajab strengthens our commitment of staying true to His commands. The Holy Prophet said “ if we recite it 1000 times, Allah will grant us 1000 rewards and houses in heaven. He promises so much for what takes up so little of our time”

The Prophet also said “ recite Astaghfirullahal-ladhee laa ilaaha illaa Huw, wahdahu laa shareeka lah, wa atoobu ilayh (I ask forgiveness from Allah Whom there is no God besides He, and He has no partner, and I repent before Him) 400 times. The reward of that will be the same as 100 martyrs would receive)

Thus , Allah, the most beneficent and merciful, has given us Rajab as a most beautiful gift and no Muslim should let it come and go without receiving His blessings in this special month. No special reparation is required for reciting invocations recommended during the month of Rajab. While in the car, on the bus, walking to class, or cooking food – all these invocations can be recited at any place and anytime (keeping in mind, of course, what it is that we are saying). A small line of forgiveness and acceptance of deeds, for example, should be recited as much as possible during this month to derive maximum benefit from the month. Imam Jafar Sadiq has recommended a special invocation During Rajab. It starts with ‘Ya man arjoohu li kulli khayr’ and should be recited after each prayer. It is not very long and can be recited in place of the usual invocations recited after daily prayers.

The days of Thursday, Friday, and Saturday are given special importance in Rajab. Fasting on those three days is equal to 900 years of worship! Besides those specific days, fasting on any day of Rajab is more beneficial than in other months. Imam Musa al-Kadhim (Kazim) states, “If one observes the fast on one day in Rajab, hellfire will go away from him a distance of one year walking. One who fasts three days in Rajab is bound to win Heaven.”

It is highly recommended to fast in this month  even for one day at least. A hadith says: Whosoever fasts a day in Rajab, the fire of hell will be away from him a distance of one year's journey, and whosoever fasts 3 days in Rajab, will be entitled for Paradise. There are narrations revealing that  Imam Ali  used to fast the whole month of Rajab.

There is a big reward for Sadqa and charity during Rajab.

Even for those who cannot fast, the Almighty has generously given an alternative so that they may still earn His pleasure! A small praise of Allah should be recited 100 times each day that one cannot fast. This serves as a reminder of His constant presence and of our goal to work closer towards Him. Muslims unable to fast . may give Sadaqa to the poor every day, or recite 'Subhana Ilalahil Jaleele Subhana Man la Yanbaghil Tasbeeho Illa Lahoo; Subhanal A'azzinil Akrame; Subhana Man Labisal Izza wa Howa Lahoo Ahlun.'

In Rajab, repeating Sura Al Tawheed 'Qul-ho-wallaho Ahad' or Surah Al-Ikhlas 1000 times fetches  the reward of 1000 Angels and blessings to the reciter,  his / her children, family and neighbors. It is also recommended to recite Sura Al Tawheed 'Qul-ho-wallaho Ahad' or Surah Al-Ikhlas 100 times every Friday in the month of Rajab. (This article is being posted on the eve of commencement of the holy month of Rajab with a deep sense of gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting in the form of Rajab an opportunity to cleanse ourselves of our sins and oversights.References available on request. Photo courtesy Google Images).

Imam Sajjad's Sahifa in the Eyes of Christian Scholars

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya is considered to be an important book for Imamis. The book is believed to have been written by Imam Zain-Ul-Abdeen after the battle of Karbala and it describes relation between man and God. Although the book is principally a collection of Islamic knowledge and thought in supplication form, it is said to have played an important part in propelling people to rise against the barbaric Umayyad regime. The main part of the book is ‘Mutawatir’ (conveyed by successive narration) but over the years , a number of scholars have written addenda to it. Since most of these scholars happen to be Imami by faith, the book that is considered to be in the highest form of eloquence is believed to be significant for Shias only. This perception is simply ironical, for the book has universal appeal and relevance for all communities.

This  can be gauged from the views of  prominent Christian scholars about the book. One of them was Philip Woolley, a professor and researcher from Germany. He asked for a copy of al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya to be sent to him after his friend, a Roman Catholic,C. Cardinal, saw the book in his library, studied part of it, and impressed with its novelty insisted on taking it away with him. When the Vatican Library  in Rome received an English version of al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya, it said in its letter of acknowledgment: "This book contains great mystical themes, so we place it for researchers in the best position of the library." A leader of Germany's Social Democratic Party  wrote to a friend, Professor Singler, saying: "This book had a profound impact on me and changed my view about Islam. I invite my friend to study this book" while in Poland, Christian Scientist, Andre Kowski said about  the book: "I am deeply impressed by the ideas of Imam Sajjad, whose noble thoughts are manifested on the pages of the book al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya. It is so attractive, to the extent that I feel this book has given me a complete sense of the mystical and divine”.(References available on request.Photo courtesy Google Images)

Imam Zain-ul-Abedeen and Farazdaq's Immortal Poem

Cover Page of Diwan-e-Farazdaq

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

“This is the son of Husain and the grandson of Fatima the daughter of the Apostle through whom the darkness dispersed.

This is he whose ability the valley (of Mecca) recognizes, He is known by the (Sacred) House and the Holy sanctuary and the lands outside the sanctuary.

This is the son of the best of God”s servants.

This is the pure pious man, the pure eminent man. When the Quraysh saw him, their spokesman said: Liberality terminates at the outstanding qualities of this (man).

He belongs to the top of glory which the Arabs of Islam and non-Arabs fall short of reaching.

When he comes to touch the wall of the Kaba, it almost grasps the palm of his hand.

He takes care to be modest and he is protected from his fears.

He only speaks when he smiles.

There is a cane in his hand. Its smell is fragrant from the hand of the most wonderful (of all the people), who is proud.

The prophets yielded to his grandfather’s favor.

The nations yielded to the favor of his community.

The light of guidance emanates from the light of his forehead.

He is like the sun whose shining disperses darkness.

His family tree belongs to the Apostle of God.

Its elements, its natures, and its qualities are good.

This is the son of Fatima if you do not recognize him.

His grandfather was the seal of Prophet hood.

God honored and favored him from antiquity.

Your words ‘ who is this?’ do not harm him.

All the Arabs and non-Arabs recognize him whom you deny.

Both his hands are relief.

Their advantage has prevailed.

The hands are just.

Nonexistence does not befall them.

He is the carrier of the burdens of the people when they are oppressed.

His qualities are good.

The ‘ yes’ is sweet with him.

He does not break a promise.

His soul is blessed.

His courtyard is wide.

He is intelligent when he decides.

He is from the people whose love is religion, whose hate is unbelief, whose approach is refuge and protection.

If the God-fearing are numbered, they are their Imams.

If it is said who are the best of the earth, it is said they are.

No generous man can reach their far purpose.

No people, though generous, can compete with them (for generosity).

They are rain when a crisis happens.

They are lions when fear becomes intense.

Poverty does not decrease the relief from their hands.

That is the same, whether they are rich or poor.

Misfortune and tribulation are driven away through their love.

Kindness and the blessings are regained through it.

In every affair their praise is after the praise of God.

The speech is ended by it.

Abasement refuses to stop at their space.

Their natures are noble, and their hands are full of liberality.

None of mankind has within their souls such primacy as he does or such grace as he does.

Whoever knows God, knows His friend. Our Religion came from the House of this man.”

This is how great Arabian poet Farazdaq introduced Imam Zainul Abdeen when Hisham, Crown Prince of Umayyad dynasty, feigned ignorance about the great grandson of the Holy Prophet. The incident took place when Imam went to the Mecca to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. Hisham also was in Mecca for the same purpose. He tried his best to reach the Kaba but failed as the holy place was overcrowded with pilgrims. Whenever he   tried to push and force his way, the crowd circulating around Kaba pushed him  back. He decided to give up and wait till the crowd became less so would be able to go through with ease. A pulpit was installed and he sat on it. He began looking at the crowds of the people from above. Then Imam Zayn al-Abdeen  came to perform his circulation of the Kaba. When the pilgrims saw him, they parted, made way for him and allowed him to pass through to kiss the Kaba. One of Hisham’s companions from Syria asked him: “Who is that man whom the people have honored very much?” Hisham was hurt and pretended not to know the Imam and angrily, shouted at the man, saying: “I do not know him!

The great Arab poet Farazdaq was standing there. He knew that Hisham was lying. He could not control himself at the insult of great Imam and said to the Syrians: “I know him.”  Hisham again  shouted at Farazdaq, “I do not know him!” “Yes, you know him.” replied Farazdaq. Then he rose and composed the poem mentioned above. After hearing the poem, a furious Hisham imprisoned him in Asfan, located between Mecca and Medina. In prison, he continued to write poetry in favor of the Ahle-Bait-E-Athar. Generous Imam upon coming to know about his imprisonment sent some money to the poet but he didn’t accept it , saying that he had recited the poem only to please God. The Imam insisted and sent him the money saying: “God Almighty is well aware of your intention, and will reward you appropriately. If you accept this money, it shall not reduce your reward from God.” Then, Farazdaq accepted the amount.

Hammam ibn Ghalib, most commonly known as Farazdaq  was was born in 641 AD in Kazimah( Modern Kuwait) and lived in Basra.  At the age of 15, Farazdaq had earned popularity as a poet. He devoted his talent largely to satire. He lived a prodigal life, and his amorous verses led to his expulsion by the caliph Marwan-1. All feared the poet's satires yet he managed to become official poet to the Ummayad Caliph Al Walid-1 (reigned 705–715), to whom he dedicated a number of panegyrics. He however earned immorality for the poem   he composed in Makka when Imam Zain- Ul- Abdeen entered   the Haram of the Kaba and Hisham feigned ignorance about him.The poem is considered as a classic work in view of its flow, continuity and selection of words even though it was composed impromptu.  Farazdaq is believed to have died in 728-30 AD.(References available on request. Photo Courtesy Google Images)

805th Urs of Ghareeb Nawaz & Gesture of Iran

A View of Flag Ceremony

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Iran government deserves all praise for presenting a ‘Tughra’ (Calligraphic monogram) for 805^th Urs of Great Sufi Khwaja Ghareeb Nawaz that commenced with the flag hoisting ceremony in Ajmer city of India on March 24,2017. The gesture of Iran will surely bring more close the followers of Ahle-Bait-E-Athar(Progeny of Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad ) and cause heart-burning among those who don’t want harmony among the various sects of Muslims and wish to promote Salafi ideology in the name of purifying Islam. It is probably for the first time Iran has sent a ‘Tughra’ containing couplets in praise of the Great Sufi before his Urs. It is a shift from the previous stand of Iran government and the move aims at sending message across the globe that all Muslims are brothers, they should live in harmony and different in their respective school of thoughts should not prove a hindrance to this cause.

An Illustration of Tughra Calligraphy)

By presenting Tughra, Iran has acknowledged Khwaja Ghareeb Nawaz’s matchless contribution to propagation of Islam in India Sub-Continent and promotion of Taziadari in memory of Imam Hussain’s martyrdom at Karbala. Indian government has also attached significance to gesture of Iran. It is evident from the fact that it has directed one of its senior Ministers, Mr. Mukjhtar Abbas Naqvi to place Tughra on Buland Darwaza of  Khwaja’s sprawling Dargah on march 25,2017.

Moinuddin Chishti (1141 - 1236) ,popularly  known as Gharib Nawaz (Benefactor of the Poor), is considered as a founder of Chishti Sufi order in India sub-continent. He  gave the message of love to all ,irrespective of caste, creed and religion.Throughout his life, he expressed his deep love for Imam Hussain and recalled his martyrdom during Muharram with great solemnity. Khwaja also asked his followers to hold congregations and take out Tazias in memory of the martyrs of Karbala. As a result, hosepipes of Chishti all over India, Pakistan and Bangladesh are known for Muharram rituals. As Khwaja never allowed any kind of discrimination among the visitors, his Urs is attended by people from all walks of life and religions. His Urs begins with the flag hoisting ceremony at Buland Darwaza. The flag is brought to Ajmer by Gori family of Bhilwara in a procession and it reaches the venue after passing through   Langerkhana Gali and Mustafa  Bazaar with Drums and bands following. The Gori family of Bhilwara is performing this ritual since 1944.The ritual of flag hoisting was started in 1928 from Peshawar.Khwaja Moin Uddin Chishti’s love for Imam Hussain has been best illustrated by his famous quatrain as under :

"SHAH AST HUSAIN, BADSHAH AST HUSAIN
DEEN AST HUSAIN ,DEEN PANAH AST HUSAIN,
SARDAAD ,NA DAAD DAST DAR DAST-E YAZEED,
HAQQUAA KE BINA-E LA ILAH AST HUSAIN."

(Husain is Shah (spiritual leader), Husain is Badshah (the administrative leader or the king) of this world. Husain is himself "religion" and also the one who gave shelter to the religion. He preferred to give his head but not his hand to Yazid. The fact is ...Husain is the foundation of The Religion, the foundation of la ilah ilallah).

It is a known fact that it was Sufis like Khwaja Ghareeb Nawaz who not only preached true Islam in Indian Sub-Continent but also kept alive the tragic martyrdom of Imam Hussain by organizing programs during Muharram at their respective shrines or hosepipes. During the present scenario, Iran is considered to be the most active nation in protecting and spreading Imami ideology. By presenting Tughra, Iran has communicated to the entire world that they hold all such personalities in high esteem who love martyrs of Karbala and denounce the followers of Yazid.(References available on request. Photo Courtesy Google Images)  

Shrine of Imam Hussain's Daughter In Lebanon

Interior of Syeda Khawla's Shrine 

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

It is quite surprising that the shrine of Syeda Khawla, the daughter of Imam Hussain, in Lebanon is not frequently mentioned in the list of holiest Imami places whereas it enjoys tremendous popularity among Muslims and Christians both. The shrine is adjacent to Baalbek's glorious walls and ever illuminated with a great flow of divine light. During the day, the  city is blanketed in sunlight that shines on its golden domes and ancient ruins, as well as on the lush orchards that surround the holy complex. Baalbek was one of the largest sanctuaries in the Roman Empire and contains some of the best preserved Roman ruins in Lebanon. However, due to lack of awareness about the shrine, a number of Imamis from Indo-Pak Sub-continent don’t include a visit to Baalbek in their itinerary while visiting Iraq, Iran and Syria for ‘Ziyarat’.     

A Brief History of Shrine

It is a well known fact that after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain in Karbala on the tenth day of Muharram in 680 AD, the women and children of his family and companions were held captives and loaded onto camels with neither saddle nor shade. From Karbala, they were brought to Kufa and from there they were shifted to Damascus-the capital of Yazid .he prisoners remained in Damascus for a year and some of them died in grief. They were later dragged and tortured through different cities in Lebanon, reaching Baalbek-Ras Al-Ein, the place where Imam Hussain's mosque was built and later reconstructed.

Stories vary about the truth that had led to Syeda’s  death. One account says that her martyrdom resulted from the long and painstaking travel. Renowned historian, Judge Muhajir, is of the view that Khawla was among the captives in the convoy of the painful journey. She was three years old when she fell off the camel's back and ever since, suffered sickness till death. She was laid to rest in an orchard at the southern entrance of the city near the ancient citadel.

 

Outside View of Shrine Amidst Roman Ruins 

Legends reveal that people residing in the vicinity of her burial place saw divine lights landing on this noble spot. Later, Khawla appeared in the dream of the man that owned the orchards and asked him to divert water away from her grave. When he ignored her request, she appeared in his dream a second, third and fourth time. The man later discussed the matter with the village council that decided to rebury Khawla in a different spot. The move resulted in the expansion of the shrine. It is generally believed that the  long and arduous journey from Karbala to Kufa and from Kufa to Damascus, from Aleppo to Hama and on to Homs, through different Lebanese areas, led to the burial of Syeda in Baalbek.

The Mausoleum

Her Zari Mubarak is located in the center of the shrine. The gold and silver Zari is four meters long and three meters wide. The door is made of vintage oak with silver, and the top of the shrine is decorated with silver and golden crowns with encryptions of the names of the infallible Imams. Also, there are Quranic verses on the door of the shrine, with a huge crystal chandelier topping the Zari.

Several meters above the shrine, a giant Cypress tree penetrates the roof of the building. It is said that Imam Zain- Ul -Abdeen had planted a small branch to mark the grave. Over the centuries, the branch has turned into a gigantic 1,400 year-old tree.In addition to the charm and beauty of the Zari , the walls of the shrine are covered with beautiful Iranian decorations, all inscribed with Quranic verses and Hadiths that are beautifully mixed with blue, white and navy colors.

Over 1 lakh devotees  assemble at the shrine each year on 40th day of Imam Hussain’s martyrdom, commonly known as his Chehlum. The shrine also receives thousands of devotees each day who come to visit and be blessed, or even attend lectures and seminars. A lot of people from the Christian community also visit the shrine for fulfillment of their wishes. (References available on request. Photo Courtesy Google Images)

Yogi Adityanath's 'Temple' & Imambara Gorakhnath-Unique Association

Gorakhnath Temple

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Truth is stranger than fiction. No one in India can imagine any association between the famous Gorakhnath Temple and Imambara Miyan Sahib in Gorakhpur for the simple reason that the temple has been a center of ‘Hindutva’ politics since Independence while the caretaker of the Imambara is considered as head of the Muslim community of Gorakhpur and adjoining areas. Yogi Adityanath who recently became Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state of India, is not only head priest of the temple but also wears the image of a firebrand ‘Hindutva’ leader. His very name has been scaring the minority community ever since he joined active politics and became Member of Parliament from Gorakhpur in 1998.Since then he has always emerged victorious in subsequent elections. 

Yogi Adityanath 

Known for his fiery speeches, stand on Love Jihad and statement on compulsion of Yoga, Dadri Issue and ban on slaughter houses, Yogi has always been demonized by anti-saffron forces in India.

But a look at his personal life reveals an altogether different picture. His most faithful servants happen to be Muslims. Maximum shop keepers at Gorakhnath Temple are Muslims. Moreover, he has been keeping a tradition involving the Imambara and temple alive despite his apparent anti-Muslim picture. Everyone in Gorakhpur knows that a ‘Dhooni’(Incense) is burnt round the clock at Gorakhnath Temple and Imambara Miyan Sahib. If the fire of ‘Dhooni’ extinguishes at Imambara, it is burnt with the fire procured from the temple and vice-versa. Fire from no other place is ever procured to put ‘Dhooni’ to flames. The tradition has been in existence since the days of Sufi Roshan Ali Shah. He was a prominent Sufi during the reign of Nawab Asaf- Ud- Daula. Once Nawab found him in deep meditation in a  Jungle near Gorakhpur with a ‘Dhooni’ in front of him. As the Sufi had bare clothes on his body, Nawab wrapped his body with his shawl that disturbed the meditating Shah. He threw shawl into the flames of ‘Dhooni’ and it reduced to ashes in no time. When Sufi cast a glance at Nawab he noticed signs of displeasure on his face. Then, Sufi retrieved shawl within seconds in its original form and handed over to Nawab. The miracle prompted Nawab to bow down his head before the Sufi. He also asked as to what he can do for Shah. He expressed his desire to erect an Imambara and Nawab immediately granted land and revenue villages to fulfill his desire. Then, Sufi asked him to donate land for Gorakhnath temple as well and Nawab did likewise. Later on, Nawab also sent Tazia made of gold and silver for Imambara from Lucknow.

Gorakhpur Imambara  

Legend says that Yogis of ‘Nath Sampradaya’ traditionally carries ‘Dhooni’ with them wherever they go or stay. Gorakhnath Temple has been their headquarters for centuries. There is striking similarity between the life style of wandering Nath Yogis and ‘Malangs’ of Madariya Sufi order. History records interaction between Gurus of Nath Sampradaya and Sufis in the medieval India. Both the groups also have certain common rituals. It is therefore believed that Sufi Roshan might have ignited his ‘Dhooni’ from the temple and hence, the tradition of exchange of fire came into existence and it is still in practice. It is also an established fact that Heads of Gorakhnath Temple and caretakers of Miyan Sahib Imambara have been visiting each other for decades. Elsewhere in India Yogi might by the front ranking campaigner of ‘Hindutva’ but in Gorakhpur he commands respect from both the communities. His elevation to the post of chief Minister was equally celebrated by Hindus as well as Muslims with equal enthusiasm. This remarkable peaceful co-existence can be attributed to the traditions set by Mahants of the temple and Miyan Sahibs of Gorakhpur (References available on Request. Photo Courtesy Google Images)

Imam Sajjad's 1400th Birth Anniversary & Apathy of Indian Imamis

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

The attitude of Imami scholars and outfits in India has so far remained somewhat lukewarm in commemorating 1400^th birth anniversary celebrations of Imam Zain –Ul-Abdeen. Barring a what’s app message of All India Shia Personal Law Board (AISPLB) announcing the publication of souvenir to mark the occasion, there has virtually been no declaration As to how Imami outfits active in India intend to celebrate the 1400^th birth anniversary of Imam Zainul Abdeen who is also popularly known as Beemar-E-Karbala and Syedde-Sajjad. Even the vibrant outfits like Chennai Shia Youth Association, All India Shia Yuva Unit, Kanpur, Hundreds of azadar Anjumans active in various parts of the country and Mumbai based prominent Imami organizations have yet to declare programs to mark the occasion. Prominent centers of Azadari in India like Lucknow, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Amroha, Kolkata, Jaunpur , Bengaluru, Chennai and many other cities have virtually remained silent over the issue.

In sharp contrast to India, Imami outfits in neighboring Pakistan had declared about a month back that 1400^th birth anniversary of Imam Sajjad would be observed in a befitting manner. It has also been decided in Pakistan that Imam Zainul Abdeen year will be celebrated from February 15 2017 to February 15,2018 and programs to commemorate Imam Sajjad will be organized at regular intervals throughout the year. The participation of over 1000 prominent Ulemas from different sects will also be ensured in such programs. Imami scholars like Allama Izhar Bukhari and Allama Hussain Ahmad have even urged Pakistan government to direct   Ministry of Religious Affairs, Interior, Education and ministry of Information and Broadcasting to arrange a comprehensive plan to celebrate the year in memory of Imam Sajjad.

In fact, Pakistani Imamis have responded enthusiastically to the call of International Imam Hussain Council to commemorate the 1400^th birth anniversary celebrations of Imam Sajjad across the globe through variety of programs befitting his exalted status. On the other hand, Indian Imamis and their leaders have ironically given priority to assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh. Instead of chalking out any comprehensive plan before the 1400^th birth anniversary of imam Sajjad on February 15,2017,they toured various parts of Uttar Pradesh to garner support of Imamis for a particular party. They addressed a series of public meetings and hosted press conferences as if their political involvement was more important to their duty towards Imam Sajjad. In their political endeavors, they forgot that it was Imam Zainul Abdeen who led first ever long march in human history and travelled 1665 kms handcuffed from Karbala to Damascus. It was he who kept alive the mission of martyrs of Karbala and philosophy of his illustrious father Hazrat Imam Hussain in a hostile environment through worshipping, supplications and patience.        

At a time when Imamis outside India are striving to organize international conferences on the life and works of Imam Sajjad in capitals of Muslim countries and publication of his poetry despite their numerical weakness, the attitude of Indian Imamis , particularly their leaders, is simply appalling and deserves to be severely criticized. They mint money by reciting ‘Masahaib’  (persecution) and don’t mind travelling worldwide to address majalis but finding it difficult to commemorate his 1400^th birth anniversary. Their attitude would lead the community in what direction can only be guessed? The only ray of hope in this context has been Channel WIN that has started telecasting majalis on personality of Imam Sajjad. Another initiative was taken by7 Zehra Charitable Trust,Mumbai.the trust organized a seminar on 1400th birth anniversary of imam and released a booklet on his life in English.Eminent speakers from Mumbai addressed the gathering.But trust has also not revealed any other program in the coming months.Spo is the case with ahle-Bait federation,Mumbai that had supported Zehra Trust in the endeavour. Apart from Mumbai, Imamis have yet to wake up from their slumber to commemorate Imam's 1400th birth anniversary with grandeur. It is high time for religious leaders to convene a meeting immediately to deliberate as to how the 1400^th birth anniversary of Imam Sajjad should be celebrated to create awareness about the tragedy of Karbala and role of Beemar-e-Karbala thereafter. They need to remember that their apathy towards Imam Sajjad will make them accountable before Imam-E-Zamana-the Awaited Savior (A.S.).

(The article is an attempt to shake the conscience of Indian Imami leaders who, of late, are showing more interest in politics instead of their religious duties. The blogger has no intention of hurting the sentiments of anyone. Photo Courtesy Google Images)   

Azadar Anjumans of Kanpur-A Historical Account

Anjuman Moimul Momneen's Ashura Processsion

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

The history of Anjumans dedicated to Marasim-E-Azadari (Ceremonies associated with Muharram mourning) in Kanpur city reveals several interesting facts. Kanpur was declared as a district in March 1803 with Bithoor as its headquarters. Later on, the British shifted their establishment to the growing city of Kanpur about 20 kms away from Bithoor. The new city saw the arrival of Agha Meer, the Exiled Prime Minister of Awadh in 1831.His stay in Kanpur give fillip to Azadari, for he had arrived with a large number of supports who mostly professed Imami faith. Before him, Khwajasara Miyan Almas Ali Khan had erected an Imambara and Mosque on the bank of river Ganges near Bithoor during the reign of Asaf-ud-Daula (1775-97).But the first Anjuman was established in Kanpur in 1857 with the name of Moin-ul-Momneen. The year when India was striving to uproot the British regime, Imamis of Kanpur established in Patkapur Anjuman Moin-ul-Momneen to institutionalize mourning ceremonies. It was followed by the birth of Anjuman-Panjatni in Kanpur in 1888 in Colonelganj locality. Then, Anjuman Zulfiqar Haideri and Anjuman Abutarabia came into existence in the same locality. While Panjatni and Zulfiqar Haidery had the backing of mostly people serving the textile mills and government offices, Abutarabia enjoyed the patronage of Nawabs. In early 20^th century, descendants of Agha Meer formed Anjuman Mohammadia in Gwaltoli. Another Anjuman was also established at the same time in Hiraman Ka Purwa under the name of  Guldaste- Haidery.

A faction of Moin-ul-Momneen formed about 75 years ago Anjuman-E-Rizvi in Nawab Sahab Ka Hata near Patkapur. It is now believed to be the largest Anjuman of Kanpur in terms of membership. As the city grew, more anjumans came into existence namely, Anjuman Aza-E-Husain, Anjuman Shamsheer Haidery, Anjuman Mazloomia, Anjuman Firdausia, Anjuman Masoomia, Anjuman Jafariya and Anjuman Chashme Kausar.

These Anjumans have produced eminent Sahab-E-Bayazs and Shair-E-Ahlebait.Munne Sahab of Anjuman Moin- Ul- Momneen is considered as the best reciter of Rawaits till today eventhough he passed away a few decades back.Likewise, Janab Anwar Sajjad of Anjuman Rizviya is believed to one of the best reciters of Musaddas.Abbua Bhai of Rizviya is still remembered for tuning of Nauhas.

Anjuman Masoomia of Gwaltoli is credited with introducing the program of Bahattar Tabut in Kanpur. Anjuman Firdausia is known for its annual Shabbedari.Anjuman Panjatni and Zulfiqar Haideri are also famous for their Shabbedaris as well as arch rivalry over the scale of programs. As lately as in 1992, Anjuman Rizviya split when one of its factions formed Anjuman Raza-e-Islam over what can only described as a petty issue. Likewise a few years later, Anjumani Panjatni witnessed a similar division resulting in the birth of Anjuman Anwar-e-Panjatni. Of late, Din Bhar Matam program of Anjuman Anwar-e-Panjatni has emerged as a highly successful one. On the other hand, Anjuman Raza-E-Islam has earned reputation as the most effective reciter of Nauhas and Salams.(References available on request.Photo Courtesy Google Images)

   

Bibi Fatima's Shrine at Hussain Tekri

A View of Bibi Fatima Zahra's Shrine at Hussain Tekri 

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Holy shrine of Hazrat Fatima Zahra is a popular place of pilgrimage at Hussain Tekri of Jaora in Ratlam district of India. Hussain Tekri is home to 6 shrines and a visitor finds mausoleum dedicated to Bibi at the entrance of the sprawling Dargah complex. After her shrine, a visitor finds ‘Rauzas’ dedicated to Imam Al-Hussain, Hazrat Zainab, Hazrat Abbas , Hazrat Sakina and Imam Al-Ali.

Hussain Tekri was developed as a large Dargah complex in  19th century by Nawab of Jaora Mohammad Iftikhar Ali Khan Bahadur. Since then, it has emerged as the most popular shrine among the devotees of Panjatan. It is famous for liberating those stricken with mental ailments. During the month of Muharram, thousands of people from all over the world visit these shrines. Visit to the shrine of Bibi Fatima remains a must on their itinerary, for they know without greetings her, their presence at other shrines won’t be accepted.

People who are mentally sick visit Hussain Tekri in large numbers to relieve themselves from being possessed by Jinns, Ghosts and Demons. It is believed that these demon creatures have long dialogue with the personalities in whose memory these shrines have been before leaving the bodies of the victims.(References available on request. Photo courtesy Google Image). 

Martyrdom of Bibi Fatima Recalled in Kanpur

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Like rest of the world, Kanpur also commemorated the martyrdom of Hazrat Fatima Zahra with great solemnity and reverence during ‘Ayyam-e-Fatima’. The series of majalis and processions held in various parts of the city concluded with a well-attended majlis addressed by eminent Zakir-E-Ahlebait Maulana Aijaz Hasnain of Varanasi. Organized by President of Hussaini Federation, Mr. Israr Hussain Zaidi at Bagh Wali Masjid in Patkapur, devotees from all over city attended the majlis. They listed to Maulana Aijaz with rapt attention when he described the uniqueness of the lady of the light and her contribution to Islam. He specifically mentioned that while her father the Holy Prophet offered himself as role model for Muslims, it was Bibi Fatima who exhibited as to how a Muslim woman should pass her life the way Allah wants.”Without Fatima, the mission of the Prophet would have remained incomplete. Moreover, her husband, sons and daughters all served Islam whenever situation demanded. They offered sacrifice and faced persecution for the sake of Islam and tried to protect true tenets of Islam against hostile and barbaric regimes”. Devotees cried and wailed when Maulana narrated as to how a bunch of ruffians at the instance of the ruling regime had raided the house of Bibi, burnt the door of her house and injured her. How they had dragged Maula Ali out of her house and caused the martyrdom of Mohsin in her holy womb. Maulana said “ companions of Prophet stopped showing respect to his daughter and son-in-law, did not offer her seat in Durbar when she lodged claim for ‘fidak’   and raised objection over her wailing over the departure of her father from the world”. He also prayed for reconstruction of her shrine that was demolished in Saudi Arabia around 1925.

On the first day of Ayyam, the city women converged in large number at Nawabganj Badi Karbala and took pout a Tabut procession in memory of Bibi. They also resorted to thunderous Matam to the mournful tunes of Nauhas.Zakira Ahlebait Mohtarma Darakshan Begum addressed the gathering and urged the women to follow the path shown by Bibi through her deeds and actions.

The second day witnessed a majlis organized by Anjuman Raza-e-Islam at Azakhana Ale Fatima in Chota Phatak. Maulana Jawed Jaunpuri addressed the majlis and dealt with the qualities of Bibi and her persecution that left the devotees in tears. Nauhakhwani was performed by Janab Salmi and Sharad Sahib. Anjuman Panjatni, Anjuman Rizviya, Anjuman Jafaria, Anjuman Moin ul Momneen, Anjuman Mohammadi and Anjuman Aza-e-Hussain also organized programs to commemorate Bibi’s martyrdom.

In all programs, Zakirs exhorted people to create more awareness about her life and circumstances leading to her martyrdom. They were of the view that such an effort would save Islam from baseless allegations leveled by scholars of other religions from time to time on it and highlight its gender equity approach.(References available on request. Photo Courtesy Google images)