Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai and his Shrine شاہ عبداللطیف بھٹائی کی سوانح حیات اور مزار کی تاریخ

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Biography of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai and the history of his shrine

Dekhti Aankhooon aur sountay kaanoon ko Asslamoalaikum, sisters, brothers friends and elders, in informative series videos of Islamic ascolars, sufisaints, cultural heritages, islamic philosophys, islamic mysticisms and historical figures. today we are describing biography of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai and the history of his shrine.

Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (1689/1690 – 21 December 1752), one of the most revered Islamic scholars, Sufi saints, and poets of Sindh, Pakistan, holds an unshakable place in the hearts of millions for his profound spiritual poetry and message of love, unity, and tolerance. Widely known by many titles such as *Lucknow Latif*, *Latif Ghot*, *Bhittai*, and *Bhat Jo Shah*, he is considered the greatest poet in the Sindhi language. His date of death, 21 December 1752, marks the end of a remarkable earthly journey but the beginning of a spiritual legacy that continues to inspire people across generations. His death anniversary is commemorated each year with great reverence by devotees, scholars, and admirers of Sufi literature and music.

Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai spent the later part of his life near the town of Bhit Shah in Sindh, where he ultimately passed away and was buried. His shrine is located in Bhit Shah, a town in the Matiari District of Sindh, approximately 200 kilometers from Karachi. This place has since become a center of Sufi spirituality and cultural heritage, drawing pilgrims, poets, musicians, and tourists from all over Pakistan and beyond. The location itself, once a quiet desert hillock (known as *Bhit* in Sindhi), was chosen by the saint himself for his residence, retreat, and reflection. After his death, this small mound became the sacred site of his burial and eventually evolved into one of the most significant shrines in the region.

The shrine of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai was constructed by Mian Ghulam Shah Kalhoro, a prominent ruler of Sindh from the Kalhoro dynasty. Mian Ghulam Shah Kalhoro, known for his piety and patronage of Sufi saints and scholars, initiated the construction of the shrine in 1772—two decades after Bhittai’s passing. Deeply moved by the spiritual stature and poetic genius of Bhittai, Mian Ghulam Shah envisioned the shrine not only as a place of burial but as a symbol of Sindh’s deep-rooted Sufi tradition. His devotion to the saint was such that he ensured the shrine would reflect both the architectural aesthetics of the time and the spiritual depth of Bhittai’s teachings.

The shrine itself is a stunning example of traditional Sindhi and Islamic architecture. It features a large central dome, intricate tilework, and floral-patterned frescoes that mirror the region’s artistic heritage. The inner sanctum, where the grave of Shah Latif lies, is kept simple and spiritual, in accordance with the saint’s ascetic lifestyle. Around the shrine complex are courtyards, resting places for pilgrims, and a platform known as the *raagi khanah*, where devotees recite his poetry through music and song, especially during the annual *Urs*—a three-day celebration of his life and teachings held every year in the Islamic month of Safar.

Visitors to the shrine often witness the passionate performances of Shah Latif’s poetry, sung in the traditional *kafi* style by *raagis* (folk singers). These performances are accompanied by the *tamburo*, a stringed instrument invented by Bhittai himself. The shrine is more than just a burial site—it is a living embodiment of Bhittai’s message of divine love, humanity, mysticism, and the inner journey. It serves as a spiritual and cultural sanctuary for followers of Sufism and admirers of Sindhi literature.

Through the centuries, the shrine of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai has undergone several renovations and restorations, with efforts made to preserve its historical and architectural integrity. Government bodies, cultural organizations, and religious institutions have played roles in maintaining its sanctity and promoting the legacy of Bhittai through festivals, poetry recitations, and educational seminars.

In conclusion, the date of death of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai—21 December 1752—is etched in history as a moment of spiritual transition for one of the greatest mystic poets of South Asia. His shrine in Bhit Shah, built by Mian Ghulam Shah Kalhoro, remains a testament to his enduring influence. It stands as a beacon of peace, unity, and love, inviting all—regardless of faith, caste, or nationality—to seek the truth and beauty that Shah Latif so eloquently captured in his verses.

With this, we seek your permission until tomorrow, tomorrow we will describe the biography of Mullah Shah Badakhshi and the history of his Shrine.

Allah Hafiz
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