Syed Hasan Askari: Chronicler of Medieval Sufism and Bihar’s Cultural Legacy

By Syed Amjad Hussain, New Age Islam 24 December 2024 Syed Hasan Askari (1901–1990) Was A Scholar And Historian Of Great Fame Whose Extensive Work On Medieval Sufism, History Of Bihar, And Cultural Heritage Earned Him National Recognition Along With Prestigious Awards And Created A Lasting Legacy In The Indian Historiography. Main Points: 1. Born in Bihar in 1901, Askari pursued advanced studies in history and culture, earning a Master's from Patna University in 1924. 2. Authored more than 250 works on medieval Sufism, Bihar's regional history, and the cultural heritage of India. 3. Presented how Sufi saints helped achieve communal harmony and gave inspiration to art, literature, and the whole culture in India. 4. Awarded Ghalib Award, Padma Shri, and honorary D. Litt degrees for his outstanding contribution to the field of historiography. 5. Left a lasting legacy on Indian historiography, inspiring generations with his research on inclusivity, dialogue, and shared heritage. ---- Professor Syed Hasan Askari ------ Syed Hasan Askari (10 April 1901 – 28 November 1990) was a towering figure in Indian historiography, whose remarkable contributions to the study of medieval Sufism, the regional history of Bihar, and the cultural history of medieval India have left an indelible impact on historical scholarship. During his illustrious career, Askari wrote, edited, and translated more than 250 scholarly works to achieve national and international renown. His research, coupled with the depth of perception, continues to inspire scholars and historians across the world. Early Life and Education Syed Hasan Askari was born on 10 April 1901 in Khujwa, a small village in the Saran district of Bihar, now part of Siwan district. He was the youngest son of Syed Razi Hasan and Raziat Fatma. From an early age, Askari displayed an exceptional aptitude for learning and a keen interest in history and literature. His educational journey began at Madarsa Islamiya Khujwa, a local institution with a strong focus on Islamic studies. From there, he enrolled in Middle School Siwan and later passed his matriculation examination in 1918 from the highly regarded Zila School Chapra, which paved the way for his higher education. Askari pursued his undergraduate studies at Greer Bhumihar Brahmin College (later Langat Singh College) in Muzaffarpur, earning a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree in 1922. His academic brilliance earned him a scholarship to Patna University, where he completed his Master of Arts in 1924. His postgraduate training was instrumental in shaping his scholarly pursuits, particularly towards history, culture, and Sufism. Academic and Literary Contributions Syed Hasan Askari’s academic journey was marked by an unwavering commitment to research and scholarship. Over the decades, he produced an extensive body of work that included books, research papers, translations, and critical essays. His writings primarily focused on medieval Indian history, with a particular emphasis on the role of Sufism in shaping the cultural and spiritual landscape of India. Major Works Some of Askari’s most celebrated works include: Islam and Muslims in Medieval Bihar: Collected Works of Prof. S.H. Askari Amir Khusrau as a Historian Sahukar Lalten Ki Dusri Kitab Hadees-ur-Rawaya Aspects of the Cultural History of Medieval Bihar These works are foundational texts in their respective areas and provide valuable insights into the complexities of medieval Indian society, the interactions of religious communities, and the contributions of Sufi saints to the socio-cultural fabric of the region. Askari was especially known for his interdisciplinary approach, which combined historical analysis with literary and cultural studies. His ability to link historical events with their cultural manifestations set him apart from most of his contemporaries. Focus on Sufism One of Askari’s primary areas of interest was medieval Sufism. He delved deeply into this field, shedding light on the lives and teachings of Sufi saints, their role in promoting communal harmony, and their contributions to the development of Indian art, literature, and music. Through his writings, Askari underscored the relevance of Sufism in fostering inclusivity and mutual respect among diverse communities. His work on Sufism was characterised by a nuanced understanding of its theological, social, and cultural dimensions. He examined the writings of prominent Sufi poets and thinkers, providing a comprehensive analysis of their philosophical and spiritual teachings. His research also explored the influence of Sufism on regional traditions, particularly in Bihar, where Sufi saints played a pivotal role in shaping local culture. Contributions to the History of Bihar As a native of Bihar, Askari had a deep-rooted connection to the region’s history and culture. His writings on the history of Bihar rank among his most significant contributions to Indian historiography. He documented the region’s political, social, and cultural development, with a particular focus on the medieval period, when Bihar was a centre of great learning, trade, and spiritual activity. Askari’s research on Bihar was notable for its emphasis on the interplay between different religious and cultural traditions. He highlighted the contributions of both Hindu and Muslim communities to the region’s development, challenging monolithic narratives and promoting a more inclusive understanding of history. His work also explored Bihar’s architectural and artistic heritage, offering valuable insights into its rich cultural legacy. Recognition and Awards Askari’s scholarship earned him widespread recognition, both during his lifetime and posthumously. He received several prestigious awards and honours, including: The title of Khan Saheb from the British Indian Government in 1945, recognising his contributions to education and scholarship. The Ghalib Award in 1974, presented by then-President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, for his outstanding contributions to Urdu literature and history. The Maharshi Badrayan Vyas Samman in 1978, awarded by President Neelam Sanjiva Reddy for his work in cultural studies. The Padma Shri in 1985, conferred by President Gyani Zail Singh, one of India’s highest civilian honours, in recognition of his lifelong devotion to historical research. In addition to these accolades, Askari received honorary Doctor of Letters (D. Litt) degrees from Magadh University in 1967 and Patna University in 1984. These honours reinforced his position as one of India’s most respected historians and intellectuals. Personal Life and Beliefs In 1926, Askari married Umme Salma, the daughter of Syed Raza Hussain and Sakina Fatima Hussain. The couple had four daughters and three sons. Askari was a devoted family man and a devout Shia Muslim, whose faith deeply influenced his scholarly pursuits, particularly his studies on Sufism and Islamic history. Askari was known for his humility and a deep sense of responsibility towards society. He believed in the transformative power of education and spent much of his life mentoring young scholars and promoting intellectual discourse. Legacy Syed Hasan Askari passed away on 28 November 1990, leaving behind a rich legacy of scholarship and cultural preservation. His contributions to Indian historiography continue to inspire generations of historians, writers, and researchers. Askari’s work remains relevant today, not only for its academic value but also for its emphasis on inclusivity and cultural understanding. In an era marked by polarisation, his writings serve as a reminder of the importance of dialogue, mutual respect, and shared heritage. Through his extensive research, prolific writings, and tireless dedication to the study of history, Syed Hasan Askari cemented his place as one of India’s most illustrious scholars. His legacy endures in the countless scholars and readers who continue to draw inspiration from his work, ensuring that his contributions to Indian history and culture are never forgotten. Conclusion Syed Hasan Askari’s life was a beacon of dedication to scholarship and cultural understanding. His meticulous research and ability to weave history with cultural narratives have left an indelible mark on the academic world. His legacy stands as a testament to the power of knowledge, inclusivity, and the importance of preserving and celebrating India’s diverse heritage. By chronicling the intricate details of India’s medieval past, Askari not only enriched the field of history but also offered a vision of unity and coexistence that resonates profoundly in today’s world. --- Syed Amjad Hussain is an author and Independent research scholar on Sufism and Islam. He is currently working on his book 'Bihar Aur Sufivad', based on the history of Sufism in Bihar. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-personalities/hasan-askari-medieval-sufism-bihar-cultural/d/134115 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism