Introduction
Syed Haji Muhammad Naushah Ganj Bakhsh Qadiri, a distinguished scholar, saint, and preacher of Islam in South Asia, played a pivotal role in shaping the spiritual landscape of the region. Born on 21st August 1552 in Ghogganwali, Punjab, Pakistan, he founded the Naushahia branch of the Qadiriyya Sufi order, leaving an enduring legacy.
Birth and Names
Syed Muhammad Naushah Ganj Bakhsh Qadri, born on the first of Ramadan in 959 AH, was the son of Sufi Ala’uddin Gilani Qadiri. Known by various names such as Haji Nausha, Abul Hashim, and Bhoora Wala Pir, his birth marked the beginning of a life dedicated to spiritual enlightenment.
Golden Chain
At the age of twenty-nine, Haji Muhammad accepted Shah Sulaimān Nūri as his spiritual guide, establishing a silsila (spiritual order) that traced its lineage back to Abdul Qadir Jilani. This connection became integral to his teachings and spiritual journey.
Personal Life
Haji Muhammad was married to the daughter of Sayyid Abu Nasr Fateh Muhammad Shah of Qutb Naushehra. He had two sons, Sayyid Muhammad Barkhurdar and Sayyid Muhammad Hashim, along with a daughter named Sayyida Sairah Khatoon. His family played a significant role in supporting his spiritual endeavors.
Literary Works
Haji Muhammad Naushah Ganj Bakhsh Qadiri was a prolific writer, and some of his notable works include “Kulliyāt-i Naushāh” in Urdu and Punjabi poetry, “Ma‘ārif-i Tasawwuf” in Persian poetry, and “Mawā’iz-i Naushāh Pīr” in Punjabi prose. These works delved into various aspects of spirituality and served as sources of guidance for his followers.
Death and Grave
Haji Muhammad passed away on the fifteenth of the Islamic month Rabī ‘ul-Awwal in 1064 AH (18th May 1654) at the age of one hundred and one. He was initially buried in the village of Naushehra in Gujrat. However, due to flooding in 1757, his body was transferred to Ranmal Sharif in Mandi Bahauddin, where his grave became a revered site for spiritual seekers. Despite the challenges, his grave remains open to the public, and an annual ‘Urs (death anniversary) is held in his honor every year on the second Thursday of Har in the Bikrami Calendar, typically falling in the last 10 days of June and lasting for three days.
Haji Muhammad Naushah Ganj Bakhsh Qadiri’s enduring influence is reflected not only in his writings but also in the spiritual practices of the Qadri Naushahi, Naushahi, and Qadri communities who continue to follow his teachings and commemorate his legacy.