Haji Syed Salman Chishty

The 11th Century Sufi Shrine Dargah Sharif of Sultan-ul-Hind Khwaja Gharib Nawaz, located in Ajmer, Rajasthan is a symbol of peace, unconditional love, and spiritual refuge for millions across the world. Revered by people of all faiths, it is not just a part of India’s illustrious history but a living embodiment of its syncretic and spiritual heritage. For centuries, it has stood as a testament to the Chishty Sufi philosophy of inclusivity, universal brotherhood, and service to humanity.

In recent times, however, this sacred sanctity is being brazenly challenged by those spreading hate-filled narratives and discord. The admission of a fabricated and misleading petition in the lower court of Ajmer regarding the Dargah Sharif marks a new low in the misuse of legal and constitutional institutions to further divisive agendas. This act not only defames the revered shrine but also threatens the delicate fabric of India’s communal harmony.

Khwaja Gharib Nawaz (Sufi Saint Moinuddin Chishty), through his teachings and life, emphasized inclusivity and love for all creation. His shrine has always been a sanctuary for seekers from all walks of life, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion. Today, this very inclusivity is under attack from individuals and groups who, in their attempt to politicize religious sentiments, are eroding the sanctity of the shrine and inclusive Bharat.

Recent media reports highlight how a group of individuals filed a frivolous and unsubstantiated petition, falsely alleging historical distortions to sow seeds of division. Alarmingly, the petition was entertained without due diligence and the principles of merits and justice blatantly ignored. Such actions undermine the credibility of our judicial system and contradict the constitutional values enshrined in our democracy.

This incident is not an isolated one but part of a larger trend where communal forces exploit historical and religious narratives to provoke societal discord. The masterminds behind these petitions and false claims aim to divide communities and tarnish the legacy of revered Sufi shrines.

In the video below the author is with diplomats at the Dargah of Sufi saint Moinuddin Chishty. he posted it on X:

Ya Gharib Nawaz…
Ya Gharib Nawaz…
Friday Bliss and Blessings…
Jummah Mubarak Dua’s and Blessings to all from Ajmer Dargah Sharif!#JummahMubarak #FridayVibes pic.twitter.com/cjRGzl2ung

— Haji Syed Salman Chishty (@sufimusafir) October 11, 2024

Hate-preaching lawyers and morally compromised judicial decisions are fuelling this dangerous trend. Instead of upholding the values of justice, truth, and harmony, these non state actors are perpetuating communal strife. Such actions have far-reaching consequences, not just for Ajmer Sharif but for the nation’s collective conscience.

In this moment of trial, we draw strength from the timeless wisdom of Khwaja Gharib Nawaz and the Chishty Sufi Order. We are reminded of the story of Prophet Moses, who, faced with an impossible dilemma, turned to Allah in complete trust and submission. This act of tawakkul (reliance on Allah) not only provided a miraculous solution but also reinforced the importance of unwavering faith and resilience.

Likewise, we too must remain steadfast in our commitment to truth and justice. The sanctity of Ajmer Sharif and the spiritual heritage it represents cannot be tarnished by fabricated stories or divisive agendas. We trust in Allah’s will and draw strength from the spiritual legacy of Khwaja Gharib Nawaz, which continues to inspire millions to this day.

We humbly appeal to the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India and our Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take decisive action against those who misuse legal avenues to spread hate and misinformation. It is imperative to uphold the constitutional principles that safeguard the unity and integrity of our nation.

The judiciary, as the guardian of justice, must exercise caution and diligence in cases involving sensitive religious matters. Frivolous petitions that lack merit and are rooted in malice must be dismissed outright to prevent communal tensions. Our leaders, too, have a responsibility to preserve the harmony that has been the hallmark of India’s spiritual culture.

To those spreading falsehoods, we urge you to reflect on the spiritual legacy of Khwaja Gharib Nawaz . His message was one of unconditional love, compassion, and service to humanity. Divisive actions and hate-filled narratives stand in direct opposition to his teachings and will ultimately harm the very fabric of our society.

To the millions of devotees and seekers who revere Ajmer Sharif, we call upon you to stand united in preserving its sanctity. Let us counter hate with love, misinformation with truth, and division with unity. Together, we can ensure that the timeless message of peace and brotherhood continues to resonate for generations to come.

Ajmer Sharif is not just a historic monument; it is a living testament to India’s spiritual ethos. As guardians of this sacred legacy, it is our duty to protect it from those who seek to defame and divide. Let us honour the teachings of Khwaja Gharib Nawaz by upholding the values of justice, compassion, and unity in diversity.

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May the light of divine love guide us in these challenging times, and may we always find strength in the blessings of Khwaja Gharib Nawaz.

The author is the Gaddi Nashin of Dargah Ajmer Sharif and Chairman of the Chishty Foundation. These are his ideas and the portal doesn't necessarily agree with him.