Dr.Mazhar Naqvi
The above painting ranks among the rare ones.It shows a Darvesh receiving a visitor at his place and dates back to 1610-20.The painting belongs to Bijapur School and it has not been yet ascertained as to who is the Darvesh and who is the visitor.For lovers of Ahle-Bait, the painting is important from the point of view of the presence of Alams(Standards) in the left corner.
These Alams prepared in Deccani style contain the names of the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad Mustafa (S),Maula -E-Kaynat Hazrat Ali, Maula Hasan and Imam Hussain.The main flag shown in the painting is also black in color and symbolizes mourning.It is perhaps the only Bijapuri painting with visible names of the infallibles.
A darvesh refers to someone guiding a Sufi to the path or " Tariqa",.They live in extreme poverty and austerity and focuses on the universal values of love and service, deserting the illusions of ego to reach God. In most Sufi orders, a dervish is known to practice 'dhikr' through physical exertions or religious practices to attain the ecstatic trance to reach Allah.
Bijapuri school of painting had flourished during Adil Shahi Kings who were great patron of arts.The kingdom also patronized Sufis and some of the emperors professed Imami faith.Hence, influence of 'Shism' is found in the paintings.(References available on request-Image Courtesy Google)
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