LARKANA: Sindhi Sufism is unique in its customs and cultural essence, having deep roots in the soil of Sindh.

This was stated by International Sufi Foundation Pakistan president Dr Saghar Abro at the 20th Urs celebrations of Faqeer Bakhsh Ali Abro Sufi Qadri Sarwari Qalandri, organised by the foundation at the Arts Council of Pakistan Larkana here on Monday night.

Dr Abro talked about utility of Sufism in modern times and historical background of Sufi orders in Sindh.

Singing with instruments, clapping and dance were part and parcel of every Sufi group in Sindh, he said.

Ahmad Solangi, a renowned poet, in his presidential address said it had to be decided by history that whether Sufism was an imported or exported school of thought regarding Sindh. He said that all Sufi martyrdoms ranging from al-Hallaj to Sufi Shah Inayat were political massacres.

He stressed people to follow the rebellious path of Sufis as it was high time to wage a war for protection and preservation of human values and land of Sindh.

A Mushaira was also held on the occasion in which Sarmad Chandio, Bashir Shaad, Ahsan Danish, Mustafa Unar, Hassan Panhyar, Nayab Sarkash, Sapna Gul Kazi, Taswer Abro and others presented their poetry. Ahmad Solangi’s poem “Jewish Girl” was highly applauded by the audience.

Published in Dawn, April 13th, 2016