Hazrat Pir Shah Abdul Karim of Bulri: The Chishti Mystic Who Shaped Sindh’s Literary and Spiritual Heritage

By Adnan Faizi, New Age Islam 5 Sep 2025 Hazrat Pir Shah Abdul Karim Bulri (1536–1623 CE) was a seminal Sindhi Sufi saint, poet, and scholar. Revered as the great-great-grandfather of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, he transformed Sindhi oral traditions into profound mystical poetry. His verses blend universal Sufi wisdom with local heritage, inspiring devotion, simplicity, and spiritual unity across South Asia. Main Points: 1. He pioneered Sindhi mystical poetry, weaving folklore into profound spiritual expression. 2. He received dual initiation in the Qadiri and Suhrawardi-Owaisi Sufi orders, reflecting a synthesis of traditions. 3. He is revered as the spiritual forebear of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, shaping Sindh’s enduring literary and cultural legacy. 4. His travels to Gujarat and regional Sufi centers deepened his learning and widened his influence. 5. His shrine at Bulri, Sindh, remains a vibrant place of devotion, drawing thousands of visitors during the annual Urs. ---- Introduction Hazrat Pir Shah Abdul Karim Bulri stands as one of the most revered and influential figures in early Sindhi Sufi literature. Born in the mid-16th century in eastern Sindh, now part of modern-day Pakistan, he combined profound mystical insight with literary genius. Known as the “Chaucer of Sindhi Literature” and the “morning star of Sindhi classical poetry,” he was both a spiritual guide and a literary innovator. His works laid the foundation for the classical Sindhi poetic tradition, which his great-great-grandson, Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, later elevated to unparalleled heights. Beyond his literary prowess, Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim’s life exemplified the synthesis of rigorous spiritual discipline, service to humanity, and the cultivation of mystical knowledge. His dual affiliation with the Qadiri and Suhrawardi-Owaisi silsila enriched the spiritual and intellectual milieu of Sindh during the Mughal era. His enduring influence is visible not only in his poetic and mystical contributions but also in the spiritual lineage and vibrant Sufi culture that continues in Bulri, Tando Muhammad Khan district, Pakistan. Early Life and Family Background Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim was born in 1536 or 1538 CE in Mutalvi (present-day Matiari in Sindh, Pakistan) into a distinguished Kazmi Sayyid family tracing its lineage back to Hazrat Imam Musa al-Kazim. His ancestors had migrated from Herat, Afghanistan, during the Timurid era and initially settled in Hala, later moving to Matiari. The family belonged to the Jararpota branch of the Saadaat of Matiari, directly descending from khalifa Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib and Fatima, daughter of Prophet Muhammad. His father, Hazrat Syed Lal Muhammad Shah, passed away when Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim was very young. He was raised under the care of his mother and elder brother, Hazrat Syed Jalal Shah. Despite the early loss of his father, he demonstrated remarkable spiritual inclination from childhood, often neglecting formal education to immerse himself in thoughts of the Divine. He frequently attended sama sessions, gatherings where Sufi songs and rural musical traditions facilitated mystical contemplation. These formative experiences profoundly shaped his spiritual and poetic sensibilities. Later in life, he settled in Bulri, a village in the present-day Tando Muhammad Khan district. The village name “Bulri” is historically linked to a woman named Bulri, who lived on a mound in that area, and over time became inseparably associated with Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim’s identity. Spiritual Journey and Sufi Affiliations Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim’s first spiritual guide was Sultan Hazrat Ibrahim Shah Bukhari Bihari, whom he met at his local mosque in Bulri. Deeply impressed by Sultan Ibrahim’s spiritual presence and knowledge, Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim pledged bay’ah (spiritual allegiance) and became a disciple in the Qadiri Silsilah, initiating a lineage that would continue in his family. This early association instilled in him the virtues of discipline, humility, and service, shaping his approach to both spirituality and everyday life. Following Sultan Ibrahim’s departure for Hajj, Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim came into contact with Hazrat Makhdoom Nuh Halai (1506–1589 CE), a distinguished Suhrawardi-Owaisi saint and founder of the Sarwari Jamaat in Hala. Hazrat Makhdoom Nuh’s emphasis on strict observance of Shariah (Islamic law) complemented Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim’s mystical tendencies, fostering a balanced spiritual approach combining deep inner devotion with outward ethical discipline. Historical accounts note that Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim, along with Hazrat Shah Khairuddin Jilani, Hazrat Makhdoom Nuh, and Hazrat Yousaf Shah Rizvi, engaged in daily religious discourses in Hala. These gatherings provided a vibrant intellectual and spiritual environment, where rigorous theological debate and mystical exploration coexisted. Personal Life and Family Although spiritually inclined toward celibacy, Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim married at the insistence of his elder brother. He fathered eight sons and three daughters: Hazrat Syed Lal Muhammad Shah (died in childhood), Hazrat Syed Abdul Rahim (died during Shah Abdul Karim’s lifetime), Hazrat Syed Jalal Shah (spiritual successor), Hazrat Syed Burhan Shah, Hazrat Syed Lal Muhammad Sani, Hazrat Syed Din Muhammad, Hazrat Syed Shah Hussain, Hazrat Syed Abdul Quddus. Following the death of his elder brother, Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim supported his family by working as a labourer, following the counsel of Hazrat Sultan Ibrahim. His daily life exemplified spiritual discipline and selfless service: working during the day interspersed with prayer, and walking through his locality at night filling empty earthen pots with water for villagers, symbolising humility and compassion. Literary Contributions and Innovations Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim Bulri’s contributions to Sindhi literature were transformative and left a lasting impact on its development. He was the first Sindhi Sufi poet to weave local folk tales into mystical symbolism. Legendary romances such as Sasui-Punhun, Suhni-Mehar, Umar-Marui, and Leela-Chanesar were reinterpreted by him as allegories of divine love and spiritual yearning. This creative innovation later became the defining hallmark of his great-great-grandson Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, who carried forward the tradition and helped establish a uniquely Sindhi mystical literary heritage. After his passing, his poetry and malfuzat (spiritual discourses) were carefully preserved by his disciples. In 1630 CE, seven years after his death, Hazrat Mir Daryai Tharawi compiled them under the title Bayan al-Arifin wa Tanbih al-Ghafilin (Exposition of the Mystics and Admonition of the Heedless). Later, Hazrat Miyan Muhammad Raza prepared another collection called Magazine of Shah Karim, containing 117 poems. These compilations are among the earliest systematic records of Sindhi mystical poetry and Sufi teachings. His works also reveal a remarkable linguistic diversity, incorporating vocabulary from Hindi, Marathi, and Gujarati, reflecting the cultural exchanges of medieval Sindh. Beyond their mystical depth, they provide valuable insight into the vernacular speech and folklore of his era, securing his place as a pioneer of Sindhi literary expression. Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim’s poetry reveals the essence of his spiritual vision: humility, devotion, and unwavering love for the Divine. A few selected verses demonstrate the depth and accessibility of his work: Tun Chau Allah Hikrro, Waai Bbi M Sukh, Sacho Akhar'u Man Men, Sooi Lakhau Lakh. (He declares the singularity of God, finding infinite peace within the heart, emphasizing inner truth over worldly illusions.) Dhikeen Dhat Paao, Heanrro Loh Sandarn Jian, Sanbhare Khe Sajjnrien, Wirjji Taan Na Wau. (A call to steadfastness and vigilance, reminding seekers to protect virtue and not be led astray by greed or pride.) Chariyan Jian Chit Kare, Sangn Sabhai Chhin'u, Je Bhaain Pireen Mirraan Ta Mat Muhinje Gin'u. (Even if others fail, one should remain loyal to the guidance of the saints, preserving spiritual integrity.) Paryaan Sandai Galharri Jeko Bbi Kare, Mat Muhinje Kan Kare, Tahan Khe Jab'u M Dde. (A teaching on respect and moral boundaries, encouraging harmony and mindful conduct in human interactions.) Waai Bee M Bhul, Mirooan Muraan Pakhanraa, Baa Allah Sando Sajjnrien, Hoo Hula Chaw Hul'u. (Acknowledging human forgetfulness, yet trusting in God’s watchful guidance for the devoted.) Khuddiyun Aen Khirothoon, Ae Pirn Saggar Thok, Hinyoon Diije Habib Khe, Lingn Gadjin Lok. (Accept what is offered by the saints, and dedicate one’s heart fully to the Beloved, following the righteous path.) Wihanre'a E Wanj, To Na Sarndo Tin Ray, Taa Saa Wanjnay Bhanj, Paee Jaa Kaanr Pireen Seen. (Even in daily journeys or tasks, one must not forget the saints, for their presence guides the soul toward divine truth.) Ithee Chal'u Chariyan Jian, Sangn Sabhai Chhin'u, Je Bhaain Pireen Marran, Ta Mat Muhinje Gan'u. (Even when surrounded by betrayal or hardship, the heart should remain aligned with spiritual devotion.) Je Jagandi Man Men, Sutee Pirn Se'ee, Man-U Piryan Neiye, Paghahyu Paarn Gari. (In a world brimming with desires and distractions, the soul’s connection to the saints ensures guidance and inner peace.) Panriyari Sabhka Jaa Sir Gharro Dharri, Kaa Lai Sandai Sajjnrien, Kaa Porhaai Kaanr Bhare. (Humility should crown every head; obedience to the saints and virtuous living elevate both heart and community.) War Wisri Ta Koh'u, Paror'u Na Wisraos, Ko Na Chawando Kaddheen, Ta Annag Oondhaos. (Even if one forgets God, one should remain hidden in humility; divine remembrance surpasses all human memory.) Through these verses, Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim not only preserved the spiritual and cultural heritage of Sindh but also crafted a poetic framework where mystical insight, social ethics, and devotional love coexisted. His work continues to inspire seekers, scholars, and poets alike, forming a bridge between medieval Sindhi spirituality and contemporary literary and devotional practice. Spiritual Succession Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim trained his sons and disciples in both spiritual practice and Sufi philosophy. Hazrat Syed Jalal Shah, his son, became his primary khalifa (spiritual successor). The lineage continued through his grandson Hazrat Syed Abdul Quddus Shah, great-grandson Hazrat Syed Habib Shah, culminating in Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (1689–1752 CE), whose poetry and teachings carried forward the mystical and literary legacy of Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim. Travels and Historical Context Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim lived during the Mughal Empire’s golden age, witnessing the reigns of Babur, Humayun, Akbar, and Jahangir. These years saw extensive cultural, intellectual, and spiritual flourishing in South Asia. Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim’s journeys included travel to Ahmedabad in Gujarat, where he participated in sama sessions with regional mystics. He met Hazrat Shaykh Issa Jundullah (d. 1621), a Sufi originally from Pat Sharif, Dadu, Sindh, facilitating cross-regional spiritual and intellectual exchange. Shrine and Architectural Legacy The shrine of Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim Bulri is located approximately 40 kilometres southwest of Tando Muhammad Khan, Pakistan. The three-domed mosque and tomb were constructed under the supervision of his great-great-grandson Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, with foundation laid in 1154 AH or 1741 CE and completion in 1156 AH or 1743 CE. Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif resided in Bulri for two years during construction, conducting Raag (musical spiritual sessions) at the dargah. The Hujra, where Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif stayed, remains to this day east of the main shrine. He personally travelled to Multan to procure kashi tiles to decorate his ancestor’s tomb, demonstrating his dedication to preserving and honouring the spiritual heritage. Annual Urs and Contemporary Relevance The shrine remains a vibrant centre of pilgrimage and devotion, hosting the annual Urs, which attracts thousands of devotees from across Sindh and beyond. The 413th annual Urs in 2024 was attended by high-ranking officials, including the Sindh Minister for Auqaf, Religious Affairs, Zakat, and Ushr. Legacy and Literary Impact Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim Bulri’s influence on Sindhi literature is profound. His innovative integration of folk narratives as mystical allegory created a literary model emulated by generations, particularly by Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. His works provide insights into regional culture, language, and mystical thought. Through his dual Sufi affiliations, extensive travels, and disciplined spiritual life, he exemplified the harmonization of mystical devotion, social service, and literary creativity. His poetry’s linguistic diversity, incorporating Sindhi alongside Hindi, Marathi, and Gujarati words, attests to Sindh’s cosmopolitan character during the Mughal period. Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim’s life and works thus serve as a bridge between medieval Sindhi culture and contemporary spiritual and literary traditions. ----- Hazrat Shah Abdul Karim’s Sindih Verses: Tun Chau Allah Hikrro, Waai Bbi M Sukh, Sacho Akhar'u Man Men, Sooi Lakhau Lakh. Dhikeen Dhat Paao, Heanrro Loh Sandarn Jian, Sanbhare Khe Sajjnrien, Wirjji Taan Na Wau. Chariyan Jian Chit Kare, Sangn Sabhai Chhin'u, Je Bhaain Pireen Mirraan Ta Mat Muhinje Gin'u. Paryaan Sandai Galharri Jeko Bbi Kare, Mat Muhinje Kan Kare, Tahan Khe Jab'u M Dde. Waai Bee M Bhul, Mirooan Muraan Pakhanraa, Baa Allah Sando Sajjnrien, Hoo Hula Chaw Hul'u. Khuddiyun Aen Khirothoon, Ae Pirn Saggar Thok, Hinyoon Diije Habib Khe, Lingn Gadjin Lok. Wihanre'a E Wanj, To Na Sarndo Tin Ray, Taa Saa Wanjnay Bhanj, Paee Jaa Kaanr Pireen Seen. Ithee Chal'u Chariyan Jian, Sangn Sabhai Chhin'u, Je Bhaain Pireen Marran, Ta Mat Muhinje Gan'u. Je Jagandi Man Men, Sutee Pirn Se'ee, Man-U Piryan Neiye, Paghahyu Paarn Gari. Panriyari Sabhka Jaa Sir Gharro Dharri, Kaa Lai Sandai Sajjnrien, Kaa Porhaai Kaanr Bhare. War Wisri Ta Koh'u, Paror'u Na Wisraos, Ko Na Chawando Kaddheen, Ta Annag Oondhaos. ----- Adnan Faizi is a Peace and Harmony activist based in Delhi. He is an alumni of CCS University, Meerut. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-personalities/hazrat-pir-bulri-chishti-mystic-sindh-literary-spiritual/d/136726 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