Sufi Saint Sheikh Baba Dawood Khaki Of Kashmir Promoted Unity, Dispelled Superstitions, And Helped Build Masjid Baba Dawood Khaki In Anantnag

By Altamash Ali, New Age Islam 9 September 2025 Born in 1521 CE in Srinagar’s Ganai family, Baba Dawood Khaki studied Islamic sciences despite early hardships after losing his parents. Main Points: 1. Career Shift: Served as Chief Justice and royal tutor in Kashmir Sultanate before embracing Sufism under Sheikh Hamza Makhdoomi, adopting the name "Khaki 2. Literary Works: Wrote Persian texts like Virdul Murideen, Dastoorul Salikeen, and Qasida Jalalia Lamiyah, earning the title "Imam Azam Sani. 3. Sufi Influence: Spread Sufism, promoted unity, dispelled superstitions, and helped build Masjid Baba Dawood Khaki in Anantnag. ----- Sheikh Baba Dawood Khaki The Sufi Saint and Scholar of Kashmir Sheikh Baba Dawood Khaki (RA) was one of the most renowned Sufi saints, scholars, and poets of Kashmir, whose contributions to Islamic literature and spirituality left an indelible mark on the region. Born in 1521 CE (908 AH) in the Ganai family of Kalashpora, Srinagar, he wore many hats during his lifetime—a scholar, poet, Chief Justice, and a devoted Sufi Baba Dawood Khaki was born into the Ganai family, known for their expertise in writing and bookkeeping. He lost his parents early in life, which meant he had to navigate tough circumstances during his childhood. Despite this, he pursued his education with dedication, studying Islamic sciences, Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), Hadith (Prophetic traditions), and calligraphy under scholars like Mulla Basheer Aami and Mulla Shamsuddin Pal. His brilliance and hard work earned him the prestigious position of Chief Justice (Qazi-ul-Quza) in the Kashmir Sultanate, and he also served as a tutor to the royal family, showcasing his scholarly prowess-- Baba Dawood Khaki’s life took a transformative turn when he met Sheikh Hamza Makhdoomi (RA), a revered Sufi saint of Kashmir. Sheikh Hamza’s teachings inspired him to give up worldly comforts and embrace the path of Sufism. He left behind his high-ranking position and adopted the name "Khaki," symbolising humility and self-denial. This shift marked his emergence as one of Kashmir’s most influential Sufi saints From Dust To Khaki He Rose, With Love’s Light In His Heart By Hamza’s grace, he found the divine realm’s start. Literary Contributions baba Dawood Khaki was an exceptional scholar and poet, primarily writing in Persian. His works reflect his deep knowledge and spiritual insight. His key contributions include-- His most famous work, this is a collection of 1,362 verses written in praise of his mentor, Sheikh Hamza Makhdoomi. It references over 200 religious texts and is still recited in Kashmiri mosques and shrines. Dastoorul Salikeen A detailed commentary on Virdul Murideen, offering guidance to spiritual seekers. Poetic compositions dedicated to prominent Sufi saints, showcasing his devotion and literary skill. His scholarship was so profound that he was honoured with the title "Imam Azam Sani" (Second Imam Azam) for his mastery of Islamic sciences like Fiqh and Hadith. His works are not only religious but also hold immense literary value.-- The Sufi’s path is tough, yet it lights the soul’s flame, Khaki Dawood walked it, spreading love’s pure name. With Hamza’s blessings, his heart became so pure, Lighting truth’s lamp, he broke illusion’s allure. Spreading Sufism and Social Contributions Baba Dawood Khaki played a pivotal role in promoting Sufism in Kashmir. He preached unity, brotherhood, and spirituality, guiding people towards truth and devotion. During his travels, he dispelled superstitions and showing people the path of righteousness. His disciples, including Baba Naseeb-ud-Din Gazi, carried forward his teachings, establishing a distinct spiritual lineage. He also contributed to the construction of the Masjid Baba Dawood Khaki in Anantnag. The mosque’s second and third floors were completed in 1579 and 1582, respectively. A beautiful blend of Kashmiri and Mughal architecture, this mosque remains a significant spiritual and historical site. Final Years and Legacy Baba Dawood Khaki passed away in 1585 CE (994 AH) during a journey in Anantnag. He was laid to rest beside his mentor, Sheikh Hamza Makhdoomi, at Koh-i-Maran in Srinagar. His Urs (death anniversary) is observed every year on the 3rd of Safar-ul-Muzaffar with prayers and recitations, drawing devotees from across Kashmir.His life and teachings strengthened the Sufi tradition in Kashmir. His works and ideas continue to inspire generations, and his legacy lives on through his disciples and followers, enriching Kashmir’s spiritual and cultural heritage. Light The Lamp Of Love, Cast Away Illusion’s Shade On Khaki’s path, call the divine to your aid. Clearing Confusion There is sometimes confusion between Baba Dawood Khaki and Baba Dawood Mishkaati, another Kashmiri scholar. Historical records like Tawareeq Hassan and Awliya Kashmir confirm that they were distinct individuals. Baba Dawood Khaki belonged to the Ganai family, not a Syed lineage, though his through marriages into Syed families, are sometimes referred to as Khaki Shah. Dawood’s words, a beacon, bring truth’s radiant light, With love in heart, they drive away illusion’s night. On Kashmir’s sacred land, the Sufi stream does flow, Khaki’s lamp makes every soul with wisdom glow. Relevance Today Even today, Baba Dawood Khaki’s teachings and works remain a source of inspiration for the people of Kashmir. His compositions, especially Virdul Murideen, are recited in religious and spiritual gatherings. His mosque and shrine in Anantnag and Srinagar are important pilgrimage sites for devotees. His message of unity, love, and service to humanity is as relevant now as it was in his time. Baba Dawood Khaki’s life teaches us that true spirituality lies in renouncing worldly pleasures and seeking God with humility. His poetry and writings remind us that love and devotion are the paths to divine. Conclusion: Sheikh Baba Dawood Khaki was a towering figure among Kashmir’s Sufi saints, whose knowledge, devotion, and literary contributions continue to inspire. His works and teachings form a vital part of Kashmir’s spiritual and cultural heritage. His life’s message was to live with love, unity, and humility, seeking God’s presence in every moment. His Urs and the mosques he helped build continue to connect people with his teachings. For more details, one can refer to books like Hazrat Baba Daud Khaki Hayat Aur Karname by Javed Ahmad Mulla, available on Rekhta. Baba Dawood Khaki’s legacy remains eternal in the heart of Kashmir, guiding future generations towards truth and spirituality. ------ Altamash Ali is a Sufi writer and a student at IFTM University. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-personalities/sufi-saint-dawood-khaki-unity-superstitions-masjid-baba/d/136764 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