Qadam Rasuls of Jaunpur

Dr.Mazhar Naqvi

Jaunpur is not just a prominent center of azadari but the city also has the distinction of having the maximum number of ‘Qadam Rasuls’ (Footprints of Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (SAW).In the history books related to Jaunpur and its history, one can find mention of at least a dozen Qadam Rasuls. They are located in localities known as Shah Ka Panja,Sipah,Sadar Imambara,Hamza,Mufti Mohalla and Bagh E Hashim. Of these, the best maintained is near the mausoleum of Feroz Shah in Sipah area.It is believed that one Bahram Khan had brought this holy relic from Media during the rule of Ibrahim Sharqi. Jaunpur was then capital of Sharqi dynasty and it was known as Sheeraz –E-Hind. Ibrahim ruled in the first half of 15^th century. The second oldest holy relic reached Jaunpur during the regime of Emperor Akbar in 16^th century  through one Hashim Sahib of Azeemabad(Now known as Patna).He placed  the relic over the grave of his son who lies buried in Jaunpur in Bagh- E- Hashim  locality. In early 17^th century son of Khwaja Meer. The relic is preserved at the shrine of Khwaja who is revered as a Sufi by locals in Mufti Mohalla. In the same locality, one finds footprint of the blessed Prophet different from others. It is embossed and placed at the mausoleum of an unknown noble while its counterparts are sunken in style. There is lack of authenticity with regard to other relics. Some of them are mentioned in books and even not traceable. Although the city has maximum number of relics but they are not preserved like Cuttack, Dhaka and Gaur where they have ornamented buildings over them.  

It is believed that whenever Prophet stepped on a rock his footprint left an imprint. Arabs preserved them and offered to the people visiting Mecca and Medina. Such devotees brought them back to India and also carried to other parts of the world. Out of veneration, not only commoners but rulers who hardly dared to undertake Haj pilgrimage apprehending trouble in their respective kingdoms during the long duration of travel and time required to fulfill the obligation in medieval time, erected buildings over them and ensured their proper upkeep also.Orthodox however reject the belief and after their advent a number of such relics lost their sheen with the passage of time. Qadam Rasuls of Jaunpur are also no exception.