Maharashtra Ki Sufi Parampara

The spiritual history of Maharashtra’s Sufis is closely associated with Khultabad, Daulatabad and the surrounding regions. This association had its roots in political developments. During the reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq, the capital was shifted from Delhi to Devagiri. Seven hundred palanquins carrying Sufis arrived in the Deccan. The region now known as Marathwada became deeply enriched by the love and spiritual presence of these Sufis. Perhaps there is hardly any place in Maharashtra that has not been touched by their presence.

The author has examined the religious propagation and outreach activities of the Sufis. Through this account, the spirit of tolerance that has long characterised Maharashtra emerges, both directly and indirectly.

India’s saints, sages and Sufis devoted their lives to nurturing these enduring values. Wherever settlements emerged across the country, their presence and teachings left a lasting impression. My close friend, Professor Ejaz, has written this book, Maharashtra’s Sufi Tradition, keeping the contemporary situation in view. This is a significant achievement in itself. His deep affection for saints, sages and Sufis is, in my view, an expression of his love for humanity.

This is the first book in Hindi devoted to the Sufis of Maharashtra. Dr. Ejaz has presented a comprehensive analysis of the philosophy and thoughts of Sufis whose contributions extend to the national level. This deserves special mention because, without such an understanding, it would be difficult to do justice to the ideas and contributions of Maharashtra’s Sufis. Historical facts establish that the seeds of Sufi thought in Maharashtra were brought from Delhi and planted here.