THE enduring appeal of Sufi saints lies in their universal message of love, peace and fraternity. These saints renounced worldly temptations, and put aside their egos. Their teachings waged a silent war against materialism, urging the humanity to find peace and fulfilment in selflessness and spiritual devotion. Their message is not bound by time, place or creed. They worked as bridges among followers of various faiths.

Last year, I had an unforgettable encounter with the devotees of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar that reaffirmed the unifying power of Sufism. A special train carrying devotees from Punjab to the annual Urs of the saint had to make a long halt at Habib Kot Junction. Sufi fakirs from Punjab mesmerised the crowd with their mystical renditions, while Nasir Shah, the worldrenowned dholchi, played rhythms that stirred the soul. Villagers, station staff, and bystanders were drawn into the magnetic embrace of that spontaneous celebration of the Sufi spirit. In that moment, all barriers of language, culture and region faded into insignificance; only the universal spirit of unity remaine d.

In a society marred by prejudices, strained relations, and economic despair, mysticism offers a path to solace and harmony. Promoting the values of Sufism love, tolerance and unity can help mend the divisions that plague our world.

In these turbulent times, it is the need of the hour to let the light of Sufi wisdom guide us towards peace and spiritual fulfilment.

Qamer Soomro Shikarpur