MAKHDOOMUL MASHAIKH HAZRAT Maulana SYED MOKHTAR ASHRAF
(R.A.)
SAJJADAH NASHIN KHANQUAH ASHRAFIA HASANIA KICHOWCHA
SHARIF.
'Omraha Dar Kaba - O Butkhana
Mi Nalad Hayat
Ta Za Bazme Ghaib Yak Dani Raz Ayad Brun'
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In the light of above mentioned couplet of Allamah Aqubal,
it is an accepted fact that after a long span of time, eminent
and outstanding spiritual personality is born to remove
the darkness of infidelity, wrong beliefs, unislamic culture,
illiteracy, tyranny, immorality, impurity of character and
behaviours by illuminating the candle of reformation and
righteousness. Such an illustrious personality was born
at Kichowcha Sharif in the descendants of Hazrat Sultan
Syed Ashraf Simnani (R.A) in the twentieth century. Let
us peruse the pious life and works of such eminent and unmatched
personality who was adorned with abstinence and sanctity,
purity of character and behaviour, exaltation of knowledge
(marfat) and spirituality (Roohanyat ), prayer and devotion
and above all follow up of revealed law (Shariat) and tradition
of the holy prophet (sunnat) The vicissitude of time could
not erase his name and works; but his candle of mysticism
is still burning everywhere showing right path.
Hafiz Shirazi says:
“Hargiz Na Mirad Anke Delash
Zindah Shud Ba Ishque,
Sabt Ast Bar Jaridai Alam Dawame Ma” |
Meaning: "He never dies whose heart
became alive with excessive passion. Our perpetuality
is inscribed on the gazette of the world"
Name: Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
Family Name: Abul Masood.
Title: Makhdoomul Mashaekh, Sarkar-e-Kalan Father: Hazrat Maulana Syed Ahmad Ashraf
Mother:
Place and Date of Birth: Kichowcha
Sharif. 1334 AH
Descendant: He is 37th descendant of Hazrat
Mohammed (Sal Allaho Alaiyhe Wa Sallam)
Syed Shah Md. Mokhtar Ashraf , s/o syed Md.
Ahmed Ashraf s/o Syed Alahazrat Ali Hossain s/o
Syed Saadat Ali s/o Syed Qualandar Baksh s/o Syed
Torab Ashraf s/o Syed Md. Nawaz s/o Syed Md. Ghous
, s/o Syed Jamaluddin s/o Syed Azizur Rahman s/o
Syed Md. Osman s/o Syed AbulFatah s/o Syed Mohammad
s/o Syed Md. Ashraf s/o Syed Hassan s/o Syed Abdur
Razzaque NoorulAin s/o Syed Abdul Ghafoor Hasan
Jilani s/o Abdul Abbas Ahmad Jilani s/o Syed Badruddin
Hasan s/o Syed Alauddin Ali s/o Syed Shamsuddin
s/o Syed Saifuddin Yahya Omudi s/o Syed Abu Nasar
Mohammad s/o Syed Abu Saleh Emaddin Nasar s/o
Syed Abu Bakar Tajuddin Abdur Razzaque s/o Syadna
Ghosul Azam Mohiuddin Abdul Quadir Jilani s/o
Syed Abu Saleh Moosa Jangi Dost s/o Syed Abdullah
Jeelani s/o Syed Yahya s/o Syed Md. Malik s/o
Syed Daud Malik s/o Syed Moosaljun s/o Syed Abdullah
ALMahaz s/o Syed Hassan Mosanna s/o Syed Imam
Hassan s/o Syed Ali Murtaza husband of Syeda Fatema
Tuz Zohra Daughter of Hazrat Mohammad Mustafa (Sal Allaho Alaiyhe Wa Sallam).
In accordance with the family tradition , Shabihe
Ghouse Jilani Ala Hazrat Ashrafi Mian (R.A.)
himself performed it in the presence of his father
, Maulana Ahmad Ashraf (R.A.) and other dignitaries
of the family . As Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.)
was unable to utter word , Ala Hazrat Ashrafi
Mian (R.A.) read "Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim
" and Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan only listened.
He listened and understood everything. He was
not dumb by birth. After the tradition of Bismillah
Khani was performed, Ala Hazrat Ashrafi Mian asked
to complete Chillah (forty days) at the shrine
of Hazarat Makhdoom Simnani (R.A) abstaining from
unwanted thing during chillah of Jamali and Jalali.
According to his order all arrangement were made
for it under the strict supervision of his pious
mother and father. The chillah started with full
care. Hazrat Makhdoomul Mashaikh (R.A.) passed
most of his time at the Shrine of Makhdoom Simnani
(R.A.) after the scheduled period of chillah.
On the last day of chillah, he was inside the
shrine in the evening. The khoddam (servants)
of the shrine did not see him and locked the door
on fixed time. Now a child of less than five years
was before his great ancestor, Hazrat sultan sayed
Ashraf Jahangir Simnani (R.A.). He fell asleep
between two graves wrapping the chader (sheet)
of the Astana (grave). When he did not reach in
the khanquah, everyone began to search him. There
was weeping and crying in the family. Well, ponds
and Neer Sharif were searched but no trace at
all. His father Maulana Syed Ahmad Ashraf (R.A.)
went to Ala-Hazrat (R.A.) in restlessness and
said, "he has been searched everywhere only
the shrine of Makhdoom Simnani (R.A.) is left
to be searched". He went into observation
and said "Babu Mian is safe". In the
morning the door of Astana was opened as scheduled.
He was found there sleeping between the two graves.
Wrapping chader (sheet) of Astana. The khoddam
awoke him and said, " Did you feel cold".
Hazrat Makhdoomul Mashaekh's tongue opened and
said, "I did not feel cold as I had wrapped
the sheet (chader) of Astana." At once his
father arrived there and embraced him as result
of which he forgot every thing what had happened
with him there otherwise he would have disclosed
the secret as he was a child.
This incident was extraordinary at the shrine
of Makhdoom Simnani (R.A.) as it never had happened.
It can be said with full confidence that Hazrat
Makhdoom Simnani (R.A.) not only removed dumbness
he must have bestowed him with unimaginable blessings
and benedictions. As morning shows the day, from
very childhood splendour of Marfat (Knowledge)
and spirituality was shining on his face.
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From very child hood, he lived apart from the
children of the village and did never play with
them. His walking, sitting and every activity
was different from other children. Why not so,
he was being brought up in the lap of such a pious
and God fearing mother who was Rabia Basria of
her time. His father and grandfather, who were
at the height of spirituality, took special care
of him, as he was to be a Ghouse waqut in future.
Hazrat Makhdoomul mashaekh (R.A.) has himself
narrated an interesting incident saturated with
good advice for the children.
Once he went out for walking with Maulana Ale
Hasan (R.A.). when they arrived at the market,
he saw some boys busy in play. He went near and
saw that they were throwing three balls together
in a small pit. If three balls went into the pit
he would win three rupees. A boy of his village
was also playing but he was losing. Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) asked him to give ball to him and
he threw ball together into the pit and won three
rupees. He gave away three rupees to the boy and
asked him to accompany leaving the play. They
reached in a orchard. He asked the boy to say
prayer with them. He obeyed. After that he told
him not to indulge in such play as it results
in loss and his father was a poor man. He further
told that if the habit takes root, Then it would
be difficult to get ride of it. He got ashamed
and promised not to play. Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) went to his father and repeated the incident.
The poor father became glad and thanked him very
much. Later on, all the members of the family
became his disciple.
Now one can draw inference from this very incident
how neat and clean was his boyhood showing a bright
future in the world of spirituality. Every child
should take lesson from his childhood.
He gained his primary education at Kichowcha
Sharif under the guidance of elders. But the irony
of fate was that the tyrrant hand of death snatched
his dignified father from him when he was only
13 years old. One can easily imagine his mental
anxieties on this heart rending premature death
which caused inexpressible grief and sorrow to
every member of the family, in particular, and
all followers of Silsila Ashrafia in general.
There was no one except his old mother and grandfather.
Now the whole responsibility of his fostering
and education devolved on the weak shoulder of
grandfather who too was grieved at heart on this
sorrowful occurrence to express it in words.
In spite of this tragic situation, his grandfather
did not make him feel the death of the father
rather took special care of education. He read
preliminary books of theology from Moulwi Imaduddin
Maulana Wasi Ahmad Sasarami and Hazrat Maulana
Abdur Rashid Nagpuri taught him all books of Darse
Nezamia except Bukhari Sharif. Hazrat Maulana
Naimuddin Moradabadi taught him Bokhari sharif.
Besides these renowned teachers, some qualified
teachers were appointed in Madrasa Ashrafia specially
for him. Every teacher taught him not only as
a pupil but they taught him with due respect as
his dazzling face was indicating his bright futures.
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It is only a special characteristics of Hazrat
Makhdoomul Mashaikh (R.A.) that he did not go
any where for education, but he completed his
education at Madrasa Ashrafia founded by his grandfather.
After teaching Bukhari Sharif to him, Hazrat Sadrul
Afazil Maulana Naimuddin Moradabadi (R.A) requested
to Alahazrat Ashrafi Mian (R.A.) to award him
turban of honour. For this, a colourful function
was organised in Khanquahe Ashrafi Hasania Sarkar-e-Kalan in which eminent personality participated.
AlaHazarat Ashrafi Mian (R.A.) tied up the turban
of honour on his head and prayed for his success
in every field. Hazrat Makhdoomul Mashaikh kissed
his pious hand and the dignitaries congratulated
him for this honour. Now imagine the extreme joy
of his beloved mother who must have been exceedingly
glad to see his son with turban of honour on his
head. It would not be wrong to say that the memory
of his father Maulana Ahmad Ashraf (R.A.) must
have filled tears in eyes of everyone present
there. Alas! He could not see his son obtaining
turban of honour from Shabihe Ghouse Jilani Ala
Hazrat Ashrafi Mian (R.A). It is true consent
of Allah is better than all".
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It is true that Ala Hazrat Ashrafi Mian (R.A)
had nominated Hazarat Maulana Ahmad Ashraf (R.A.)
his son, as his caliph after him but he left this
world on 1347(A.H.) and this sacred seat became
vacant. He nominated Hazrat Makhdoomul Mashaek
(R.A.) as his wali Ahad Janashin on the occasion
of Fateha Chehlum of his deceased son. A large
number of followers and eminent personalities
from every where had thronged the Khanquahe Ashrafia
Hasania. In their presence, AlaHazarat Ashrafi
Mian (R.A.) announced his Wali Ahadi (successor
ship) in such word.
"Faquir Syed Abu Ahmad Md. Ali Hossain Ashrafi
Jilani Sajjadah Nashin Dargah Roohabad ki Chowcha
Sharif Dist. Faizabad informs to all members of
the family, Islamic brother and followers of Silsila
Ashrafia that I have nominated my son Alime -
Rabbani Waeze - Lasani Maulana Abul Mahmood Ahmad
Ashraf as his Wali Ahad and Janashine Ashrafussimnani;
this Faquir performed third Haj in 1329 (A.H.
) and visited Taif Sharif, Madina Monawwarah,
Baitul Maquaddas and other important places like
karbalai Moalla, Nazaf Sharif, Kazemain Sharifain,
Ghare Surmara Baghdad Sharif, Hama Sharif and
Hams Sharif etc. I could not reach Kichowcha Sharif
on the date of Urse Mahboobe Yazdani Noor Bakhsi
Simnani. I asked him to perform all customs of
Urs. He did it well like me, served the guests
and as a respect instead of putting on Khirquah,
he made it see to all. He served me whole life
and obeyed my order on every thing. He died of
plague on 15th Rabiul Akhir 1347 AH. I, on the
occasion of Majlise Chehlum and in presence of
members of family, disciples, Kholfa like Syed
Gholam Bhik Nirang AlMokhtabba Farquirullah Shah,
Haji Moizuddin Raise Ibrahimpuri and Nazir Hasan
from Shukhe Jaunpuri and lovers of Silsila from
all over India, I made my grandson my disciple
and nominated my Wali Ahad. All who were present
shook hand with him with due respect and prayed
for his knowledge, practice and long life".
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Hazrat Ala Hazrat Ashrafi Mian (R.A) got him
married with the Daughter of Peer Syed Mustafa
Ashraf (R.A). He has three sons from his first
wife viz. Alhaj Maulana Syed Izhar Ashraf Sajjadah
Nashim Khanquahe Ashrafia Sarkar-e-Kalan (2) Syed
Md. Ahmad Ashrafi Jilani (3) Syed Ali Ashrafi
Jilani and from second wife he has two sons viz.
Md. Anwar Ashraf and Syed Md. Hasan and three
daughters.
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It is undeniable fact that in the propogation
of Islam and showing right path of Shariat (Ravealed
Law) and Tariquat (Path), the outstanding services
of Auliae Keram (revered friend of Allah) can
never be forgotten. likewise, Hazrat Makhdoomul
mashaekh's service to the cause of Islam in general,
and for Silsila Ashrafia, in particular, is the
golden chapter of the history of khanquahe Ashrafia
Hasania Sarkar-e-Kalan . As we have come to know
his father passed away when he was only thirteen
years old. His grandfather who was his sole guardian
and foster, left this world in 1355 AH when he
was only twenty-two years old. Now imagine this
tender age and so many responsibilities devolved
on his weak shoulder. He was alone and there was
no one on his back to support and guide him except
his old grieved mother whose heart had grievously
injured on account of this heart rending situations.
In this condition, an ordinary man might have
been demoralised but his endowed maturity in spirituality
stood by him and he faced all these difficult
situations with courage and determination. The
old mother continued encouraging him as a result
of which he started his journey with the mission
of Makhdoom Simnani (R.A.) in every corner of
the subcontinent. Wherever he went taking the
candle of Hazrat Makhdoom Ashraf (R.A), he was
accorded with warm and sincere welcome. He who
saw his shining face became fascinated. He brought
a revolution wherever he went by presenting Islam
in its true sense of term and showing the path
of Shriat and Tariquat in a very thoughtful and
attractive manners resulting millions of people
coming in the fold of Silsila. He not only attended
the religious function and delivered spiritual
lecture but also eminent learned men and educationist
belonging to different sects used to attend special
meeting programme and ask questions and get satisfactory
answers. His method of presentation of mystical
idea and point of the Quran and Hadith was so
meaningful and attractive based on reason that
great educationist bowed down their heads before
him. His speech on knowledge (Marfat) and reality
((Haquiquat) reminded the speech delivered by
Syadna Ghouse Azam Mohiuddin Abdul Quadir Jilani
(R.A). Besides India, he journeyed to European
and Arab countries and illuminated the candle
of Makhdoom Ashraf(R.A.)'s mission everywhere.
In those countries wherever he landed by plane,
a sea of human being rushed to see and welcome him. He left deep impact everywhere and thousands
of people became his disciple. It is very difficult
to calculate the number of his disciples and caliphs
spread in countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh,
Shrilanka, Mauritius, Holland, England and many
Arab countries. He not only preached orally but
also established Madrasas wherever felt necessary.
Even today a number of Madrasas are running under
his spiritual patronage.
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It is an undisputed fact that it is fear of Allah
(Taquwa) that makes a man perfect Momin (believer)
and brings nearer to Allah. The holy Quran has
made it clear that he is the most dignified before
Allah who is most Allah fearing. No one can dispute
this fact that the sanctified life of Hazrat Makhdoomul
Mashaekh is the manifestation of Taquwa from Childhood.
Everymoment of his life was moulded in the matrice
of Shariat (Revealed law) and Sunnat (saying
and action of the prophet). In eighty-four years
of his life no one could dare to say that any
moment of his life was deviated from the path
of Holy prophet of Islam. He always said prayer
on time as he used to be ready for prayer (Namaz)
even before time and asked everyone to go for
Namaz. In fact he slept with fear of Allah and
awoke with His fear. What to speak of his young
age prayer, even in his old age, he did never
show negligency in prayer. Even in last period
of life, when he was unable to stand and walk,
he observed complete fasting of Ramzan. This was
nothing but the strength of his belief and spirituality.
Someone said that Shariat gives leave of fasting
to the old man. He replied, "since childhood
I have not left fasting; why should I leave it
in old age". He even attended Tarawih with
punctuality. During his last time of life one
day he stood for prayer but fell down being fainted.
After sometime when he regained his sense, stood
and said prayer. It was his unmatched Taquwa (Fear
of Allah) which impressed everyone. In short,
he passed his whole life according with the Sunnat.
It is true that sajjadah Nashin of Makhdoom Simnani
(R.A.) was a great honour for him but it would
not be wrong if I say so that Sajjadah Nashini
was itself proud of him as Hazrat Maulana Suleman
Saheb has said"
| “Banazad Bar To Sajjadah
Nashini” |
Meaning: Sajjadah Nashini is proud of
you.
In the construction of versatile personality,
character and behaviour are deemed as essential
factor. The character of Arefin and Salekin (mystics
and devotee) is illuminated with the candle of
prophet hood and they are the spectacles of the
character of our holy prophet (S.A.W) about whom
the Holy Quran says, " undoubtedly, you are
on great character". Likewise Hazrat Makhdoomul
Mashaikh (R.A) presented before the world such
a refined character and moral which was in conformity
with the character and behaviour of Mohammad Arabi
(Sal Allaho Alaiyhe Wa Sallam). Hazrat Makhdoomul Mashaikh weighed his
every action on the scale of morality presented
by the founder of Islam (Sal Allaho Alaiyhe Wa Sallam). He must have
read "Maktubate Sadi" of Hazrat Sharfuddin
Yahya Monairi (R.A.) in which describing the importance
of character in tariquat writes. "Character
is that it has become the manner of learned men
who follow Shariat in their conditions and taste
their character on the touchstone of Sunnat (saying
and action of prophet). He who does not follow
Shariat he gets nothing from Tariquat"
Everyone who has seen him must confirm above
stated virtues of his character to see which even
his enemy could not help being impressed. In short,
he was proof (Misdaque) of this couplet of Hazrat
Mehboob-e-ilahi (R.A.)
“Har keu khare Nehad Dar
Rahe Ma Az Dushmani
Har Gule Kaz Baghe Omrash Bashagofad be Khar Bowad” |
Meaning: "He who places thorn on my
way due to enmity,
I pray to Allah that the flower
which blooms in the garden of his life be without
thorn"
Rights of Slaves (Hoquul Ebad)
Rights of slaves is of great importance in Islam
and its founder (Sal Allaho Alaiyhe Wa Sallam) has emphasized to be
careful in discharging the rights of slaves as
Allah can forgive every sin except the rights
of slaves. Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) kept its
importance in view and in eighty-four years of
life, he did not crush the right of anyone. He
was so honest in dealing that no one could raise
finger on him. How can this be expected from a
dignified personality who was generous, who was
the helper of needy, widows and orphans. He did
never rebuke the beggar and return empty handed.
His door was open for all. It was his special
characteristics that months before his death,
he announced that if any one had anything due
to him, he should come and take in his life time.
He waited but not a single person came to claim
his due. He used to say that he always practised
on three things strictly accordingly to the will
of his father, Hazrat Maulana Ahmad Ashraf (R.A.).
First, punctuality in saying prayer; second, always
speaking truth and third, discharging the rights
of slaves. He did not deviate from these three
important will of his father throughout his life.
Obedience to mother:
The example of obedience to mother which Hazrat
Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) has left behind is unmatched
and a golden chapter of his life. He knew it well
that paradise is under the feet of mother; he
remained faithful and obedient to his mother who
was Rabea Sania of her time. He did not do any
work without the permission of his mother and
even he did never go to offer Fatheha to the Shine
of Hazrat Makhdoom Simnani (R.A.) without her
permission. He did not go out without her permission
and when he returned from the journey, first met
with her and and narrated the reports of his journey.
There are many incidents of obedience to his mother
which he narrated amongst his followers only to
give them lesson of obedience to mother. About
his mother he says, "Revered mother was Rabea
Sania of her time. She said obligatory prayer
and Tahajjud (prayer said after midnight) with
extreme punctuality. She remained engaged in the
recitation of Holy Quran forgetting even breakfast
when his father died, she was in old age but she,
was always punctual to Namaz."
Two events of his obedience:
(1) Once he was leading the prayer of Isha and
Ala Hazrat Ashrafi Mian (R.A.) too was behind
him. When he was in prostration (Sajda), some
one called, "Mohammad Mian, your mother is
calling you." No sooner did he listen it
than he rushed to his mother leaving the followers
in prostration. When she knew that he responded
to her call leaving Imamat (leadership in prayer),
she said that one could leave Nafl prayer at the
call of mother. Upon this, Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A) told that it was true but Moula Ali sacrificed
his Asr prayer on the prophet (S.A.W) though the
sun was returned back by the prophet for his prayer;
he told that Quaza (saying prayer after due tim)
of Namaz could be but the Quaza of obedience was
impossible. Then he went to the mosque fastly.
Alahazrat Ashrafi Mian Smiled to listen to it
and he again led the prayer.
(2) One day his mother asked him to get a latrine
constructed nearby. He began to make it himself
with the help of a servant. In the meantime a
guest came and asked the servant to tell him to
wait. He completed it and went to meet him explaining
the reason of his delay that he was making latrine
for his mother. The guest amazed to know it and
begain to weep. But his mother did not use it
and got it dismantled, as she knew that only she
would not use rather other would also use. She
did not like that the latrine made by Sajjadah
Nashin of Hazrat Makhdoom Simnani (R.A.) should
be used by everyone.
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Undoubtedly Makhdoomul Mashaikh Hazrat Maulana Syed Mohd.
Mokhtar Ashraf Sajjadah Nashin (R.A.) was the greatest spiritual
personality of his time having a large of ulmas and mashaikh
in the chain of his disciples. There are many personalities
in Khanwadai Ashrafia like Shaikhul Islam Maulana Syed Mohd.
Madani, Maulana Syed Hashmi, Maulana Syed Arabi, Maulana
Syed Jilani and many others. Among his disciples, there
are many eminent learned personalities like Maulana Mufti
Habibullah (R.A.), Maulana Mufti Gholam Mujtaba (R.A.),
Maulana Mufti Abdul Jabil, Maulana Mufti Zainul Abedin,
Maulana Shahid Raza Naimi (London) and many others. Infact,
His spiritual personality was so attractive and magnetic
that he who came near to him, could not keep being his disciples.
Not only in India but in abroad too, there are distinguished
learned personalities and mashaikh who are his disciples
and kholfas. It was the result of his purity of character
and sanctity of behavior that everyone whether belonging
to locality or outside places held him in high esteem and
to be his disciples was a matter of pride for them.
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It is fact that enlightenment is the special
attribute of Aulia (Friends of Allah) who have
the information of one's heart and no one needs
to explain what he has in heart. Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) was endowed with this by birth with
the gift of Allah. There are hundreds of incidents
scattered every where which show to what exaltation
of spirituality was he. If any one went to him
to tell his desire and ask some question, he would
start conversation in such manner that he would
get the answer of his question and returned fully
satisfied. I am presenting here only some events
as a proof to what I have stated above.
(1) Once a man came to Khanquahe Ashrafia Hasania
to be disciple. He wished to be disciple and expressed
it before Hazrat Maulana Mufti Ahmed yar Khan
(R.A.) who was at that time a teacher in Madrasa
Ashrafia. He took him to Kichowcha Sharif to meet
Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan . The time he reached there,
he was playing ball with Mahaddis Azam Haind (R.A.)
The stranger was amazed to see him in such tender
age as he had come to know his celebrity there.
Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) took him to his house
and presented tea. Without being asked any thing,
he told that first he wanted to tell him a story
and after that further conversation would take
place. He started narrating in such way. "Hazrat
Saydna Baba Fariduddin was consumed with love
of Allah from very childhood and completed different
steps of mysticism and spirituality. Hazrat Nezamuddin
Mahboobe Ilahi (R.A.) went to him to be his disciple.
When he reached there he saw him playing with
some children. Seeing it, doubt cropped up in
his heart and wanted to return from there. When
he was to return from there, Hazrat Shaikh Fariduddin
(R.A.) called him and pointing towards a jar said,
"Bring the Jar." He tried to raise it
but in vain. Then he said "Mouth is small
but the bottom is large." He indicated that
the age is not condition to be mystic and holy
man. After narrating it, he started conversation
on different topics. After Magrib prayer Hazrat
Maulana Mufti Ahmad Yar Khan and that Stranger
came to meet again. There was curtain on the door.
He came out and asked, "How did you come
again." We have come again to know whether
he had made him his disciple or not Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) smiled and told that why they took
trouble to ask him this. Upon this the stranger
told that he had come to be his disciple and doubt
had come in mind and heart and now it was removed
by you. In fact, you are enlightened man and make
me your disciple. He made him his disciple. Only
this incident of his tender age is enough to prove
his spiritual maturity. Those who have been in
contact with Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan , Know it well.
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Hazrat Ala Hazrat Ashrafi Mian (R.A.) made him
his wali Ahad Janashin in a very tender age. His
mother was anxious to think the responsibilities
of Khanquah and propagation of the mission of
Hazarat Makhdoom Simnani (R.A.) on the weak shoulder
of his son. She requested to Ala Hazrat Ashrafi
Mian (R.A.) not to give so much burden on him
as he is alone and in tender age. Consoling he
said that Khanquahe Ashrafia Hasania would reach
to the peak of progress in every respect by him
and she would see herself the development of Khanquah.
His prophecy came true and after availing this
dignified post of Sajjadah Nashin in 1356 (A.H)
he turned his attention towards khanquah. There
were only four pucca rooms and some thatched rooms
in the khanquah. Gradually the khanquah began
to make progress. But he had to pass from difficult
situations as the opposite party always put obstacle
in the progress of the Khanquah. Case after case
were lodged against him but he faced all these
difficult situation with courage and determination.
Whenever he needed any advice he did not consult
with any one but used to go to Hazrat sadrul Afazil
Maulana Naimuddin Moradabadi. (R.A.) to seek advice.
His correct and sincere advice always stood by
him in every difficult condition. In fact, there
was no one except the old mother and Hazrat Maulana
Naimuddin Moradabadi (R.A.) who was just like
a sincere guardian for him. During this period,
Hazrat Shaikh-e-Azam Maulana Syed Izhar Ashraf
Sajjadah Nashin was gaining education. After completing
education, he shared the responsibilities of Khanquah
and Makdoomi mission with zeal and devotion. Now
he felt comfort as his Wali Ahad took all responsibilities
of khanquah.
|
One can not deny this facts that olma (Learned
Man) were highly impressed of his eminent personality
and his humbleness. They respected him wherever
he went. In every function he used to be president
and delivered his spiritual and meaningful speech
in the end. He was just like a moon amongst the
Mashaekh and Olmas. He also respected those savants
of Islam. That is why where ever he went Olmas
attended his private meeting on Seheduled time
and had conservation on different Islamic topics.
They returned fully satisfied with his meeting.
On the occasion of his first Urse Makhdoomi as
a Sajjadah Nashin, he invited the dignitaries
of Olma and Mashaekh who responded to his invitation
and were highly impressed with the management
and hospitality. This historic gathering of Olmas
and Mashaikh will ever remain a green chapter
of the Khanquahe Ashrafia Hasania Sarkar-e-Kalan .
The Olmas of present day should think that the
importance of khanquah had been in their eyes.
Names of Olmas and Mashaekh who attended the first
Urse Makhdoomi under his sajjadah Nashini.
(1) Hazzatul Islam Maulana Hamid Raza Khan
(2) Sadrushshria Maulana Amzad Ali
(3) Sadrul Afazil Maulana Naimuddin Moradabadi
(4) Sadrulolma Maulana Gholam Jilani Merathi
(5) Maulana Abur Rashid Ashrafi Nagpuri
(6) Maulana Refaquat Hossain Kanpuri
(7) Mufti Ahmad yar Khan Sahab
(8) Mufti Azam Hind Allama Mustafa Raza Khan
(9) Mojahede Millat Maulana Habibur Rahman
(10) Maulana Md. Suleman
(11) Shamsulolma Shamsuddin Jaunpuri
and many others. They congratulated him on being
Sajjadah Nashin of Makhdoom Simnani (R.A.).
(1) One should be punctual to prayer (Namaz)
(2) One should be neat and clean in dealing.
(3) One should be strictly careful in discharging
rights of slaves.
(4) If one does not get humiliation and lowliness
in prayer, one should not leave it; but always
perform once's duty. Gradually Allah, will make
one engrossed in it.
(5) Never criticize the saying and actions of
mystics. From doing so make sure that there will
be slipping in tongue and pen and he will be cursed
by Allah though he be a great learned man of his
time.
It is true that Hazarat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.)
journeyed with the mission of Makhdoom Simnani
(R.A.) to different places in India and aboard
but he did never forget the followers of Silsilai
Ashrafia at Bhagalpur particularly at Machipur
where his father and grandfather had been and
illuminated the candle of reformation and spirituality.
This area was called by them as "Azizane
Bhagalpur" and they showered so much blessings
and benedictions on this area that can't be expressed
in words. Just in the same way Hazrat Makhdoomul
Mashaekh had wider corner in his heart for the
followers of Silsala Ashrafia at Bhagalpur particularly
for Machipur. He too made Machipur center of reformation.
To know his programme at Machipur, Ashrafi of
the area thronged there to see and meet him. From
there he used to go to different places of Bhagalpur
for his mission. He brought a revolution in their
lives. What to speak of the follower of Ashrafia,
even the non believers used to meet and get blessings.
In fact his shining face fascinated everyone.
I am too proud of having got such a Shaikh who
sent me Madina Monawwarah from his Durbar (Shrine)
in a moment . There is no need to go in detail.
The follower of Bhagalpur in general, and of Machipur
in particular, can't forget his kindness, love,
affection, blessing and sincerity. How can they
forget such a benefactor (Mohsin) who always kept
Bhagalpur on top priority though they did not
deserve it but only because his ancestors, father
and grandfather, had blessed this area with "Azizane
Bhagalpur" so he had always been keeping
it before his view. Though he left this world
but his blessing and benediction will continue.
Some days before his death, Alahazrat Ashrafi
Mian (R.A.) asked his family members to demand
from him whatever they liked within three days
but only one demand. Everyone demanded from him
according to his wish and got it. But even after
two days, Hazrat Sarkan-e-Kalan did not present
his demand from him as he was in perplexed condition
as to what he should demand? Ala Hazrat (R.A)
called him and said "Faquir is fulfilling
the demand of everyone for three days, and you
have not presented your demand as yet." He
said, "I am thinking that you will fulfil
my demand or not; first make promise to give what
I demand from you". It is my promise, demand
whatever you like". He again said, "I
am in need of many things and you will fulfil
only one demand; hence I am puzzled what to demand
and what not". When you have promised to
give, I demand you from you". Hearing it
Alahazrat Ashrafi Mian (R.A.) bent down his head
and remained in this condition for some time.
Then raised his head and said, "I endow myself
to you from today".
Imagine the value of demand what Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) presented before his Shaikh, Ala Hazrat
Ashrafi Mian (R.A.) In fact, he gave away his
all spiritual earnings what he had earned from
meditation, observation and by the benediction
of the Holy Prophet of Islam (Sal Allaho Alaiyhe Wa Sallam) and Aulia-Ekram (Revered friend of Allah). That was why
his personality had an attraction for all.
|
He awarded khelfat to a large number mostly to Olmas and
Mashaekh. Some of the important and known kholfas are stated
here.
(1) Maulana Sayed Izhar Ashraf Sajjadah Nashin.
(2) Maulana Sayed Anwar Ashraf
(3) Maulana Sayed Ahmed Ashraf
(4) Shaikhul Islam Sayed Md. Madani Ashraf Janashin Mohaddis
Azam Hind
(5) Maulana Mufti Habibullah (R.A.)
(6) Maulana Shahid Raza (London)
(7)Maulana Sayed Hashmi
(8)Maulana Md. Suleman Bhagalpuri
(9) Maulana Md. Gholam Mujtaba Ashrafi.
(10) Maulana Mufti Abdul Jalil Ashrafi
(11) Maulana Sayed Kumail Ashraf
(12) Maulana Sayed Sah Tanwir Ashraf
(13) Maulana Sayed Md. Jilani Ashraf
(14) Hazrat Sayed Hasan Mosanna Ashraf
(15) Md. Ibrahim Bombay
(16) Abdul Quadir Bombay
(17) Md. Aqubal Dobai
(18) Maulana Rafique Alam
(19) Md. Azizur Rahman Burhanpur
(20) Maulana Sayed Mahmood Ashraf
(21) Md. Tabibuddin Ashrafi
(22) Maulana Faizur Rahman Shaiklul Hadis Machipur Madrasa
(23) Maulana Momtaz Ahmad Ashrafi Machipur Madrasa.
|
Learned men (Olmas) and Mashaekh (Holy men) are
agreed on it that Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.)
was on the dignified post of Ghousiat. That his
mystical gravity and spiritual maturity were deep
like ocean from which some times dashing waves
of miracles (Karamat) made the people astonished.
If I say that his eighty-four years of life was
miracle oriented, it would not be wrong. There
is no village, town, city in India or aboard visited
by him where there is not his miracle like a picture
on the wall (Naqashba Diwar). A voluminous book
can be compiled on his miracle. A few, which the
writer has seen himself and heard from reliable
sources:
(1) Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) left for Lahore
from Delhi by train. When the train arrived at
Punjab, communal riot broke up and the Sikh started
looting and killing the Muslim passenger of the
train. All the compartments of the train were
looted, set on fire and Muslims were killed except
the compartment of the Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.). water
and food ran short. Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) said
"If there is anyone who can fetch water for
this Faquir" A young non Muslim stood and
got down from the train and succeeded in bringing
water. As soon as he came with water he fell down
on his feet and said that before drinking water
he should make him Muslim as he had seen a number
of persons with white turban on his head, white
dress and sword in hands who were protecting the
compartment from the looters. He embraced Islam.
The news of communal riot spread every where just
like the wild fire and every one was anxious about
the safety of his life. Later it was announced
from Radio Pakistan that Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) has arrived at Lahore safe.
(2) Every year Urs of Hazrat Maulana Ahmad Ashraf
(R.A.) is celebrated at Machipur, Bhagalpur Madarsa
with pomp and show. The programme of urs begins
from 13th Rabiul Akhir and ends on the day of
sixteen. Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) left the
room to attend Mahfile Sama (Quawwali). The sky
was overcast with cloud. The writer was with him.
He looked at the sky and reached on the stage.
Some drops of rain fell and stopped. Mahfile Sama'a
continued with full Swing for two hours. But it
rained heavily all around the Madrasa and a people
of Agarpur village did not come as they thought
that due to rain Mahfile Sama would have been
postponed. Everyone was in wonder to see the miracle
of Hazarat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.)
(3) The Masjid (Mosque) of Machipur, Bhagalpur
was old and small. The writer made planning to
enlarge it in southern and western side so that
it could accommodate the inhabitants of Machipur,
Agarpur and English line on Friday. But it could
not be possible, as the owner of the land beside
the Masjid did not agree to give land. I left
the programme of its enlargement and raised pillar
to construct roof on the Sehan. In December 1994
Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.) came at Machipur Madrasa.
This was his last journey to this village. One
day I requested him to go to Masjid to pray for
its construction. He went there and sat. He delivered
speech on the importance of Mosque and said, "He
who will donate money to this Masjid, I will be
his witness and he will go to the paradise in
the light of Hadith. He himself gave five hundred
eleven rupees followed by others who were present
in the Mosque. He remained there for two hours
and fifteen thousand rupees collected without
any programme for it. I thought that now the money
would be utilised in roof. But it did not happen
so. On account of some disturbances, I got the
land of the Masjid measured by surveyor (Amin).
With the miracle of Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.),
in every side of Masjid there was enough land
for its enlargement. The villagers joy knew no
bound and work of enlargement started with full
swing day and night. Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.)
again came after fifteen days and saw the Masjid
enlarged and spacious. He was very glad to see
it and said, "In Kaba Hatime Kaba is also
there. By this mad understand that the founder
of Masjid would have left land for future enlargement.
In short, there are so many miracles revealed
by him at different places in Bhagalpur. If it
is completed it will be a booklet of miracles
at Bhagalpur.
|
Man has not come in this world to live permanently.
Everyone has to meet death on fixed time. Aulia Ekram (Revered friends of Allah) always remembered
death and wept bitterly and they assessed their
preparation for death. Hazrat Sarkar-e-Kalan (R.A.)
lived in this world for eighty-four years but
just like traveller who stays for sometime and
then leaves for. From one year he began to make
preparation to meet his end. When he suffered
from weakness and pain in knees, he deemed it
as signal of death. He handed over full charge
of Urse Makhdoomi to Hazrat Shaikh-e-Azam Maulana
Sayed Shah Izhar Ashraf with all Tabarrukat (Benediction).
He told that he would not live in this world more
and he (Shaikh-e-Azam) would perform Urs programme
next year. Two years before his death wherever
he went, he used to say that he had come only
to meet his followers. He also came at Machipur
and told that he had come not on programme but
only to meet. He made arrangement of his coffin
and kept in the box. He handed over it Hazrat
Maulana Syed Mahmood Ashraf who is his grandson.
He also gave him expenditure of Fateha Sowam and
Chehlum. He remained in the khanquah observing
chillah for seven days. During this period, he
recited full holy Quran before the grave of his
mother. After this, he went home and illness continued
increasing. Hazrat Maulana Sayed Mahmood Ashraf
took him Lucknow and got him admitted in the hospital
but in vain.
|
At last 9th Rajab came and he passed away leaving
behind millions of followers to mourn his Wafat
(Death).
|
His shrine is in the Khanquah Ashrafia Hasania
in the northern side beside the grave of his mother.
May Allah shower flower of kindness on his grave.
(Amin)
|
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
An eminent spiritual
personality of twentieth century born at Kichowcha Sharif
in 1334 A.H. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Son
of an unmatched learned man and unparalleled orator
of his limit, Hazarat Maulana Ahmad Ashraf (R.A.) |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Grandson of Shabihe
Ghouse Jilani Syed Shah Ali Hossain Ashraf Jilani who
was a great Sufi (mystic) and reviva list of his time. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Son of a pious
mother who was Rabea Sania of her time. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Obtained education
at Madrasa Ashrafia Kichowcha Sharif. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Obtained turban
of honour by the pious hands of Ala Hazrat Ashrafi Mian
(R.A.) at Madrasa Ashrafia Kichowcha Sharif. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Became disciple
of Ala Hazarat Ashrafi Mian (R.A.) and got Khelafat. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Became Sajjadah
Nashin in 1356 (AH) |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Remained as Sajjadah
Nashin for sixty-two years. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Journeyed through
out India and aboard with the mission of Makhdoom Simnani
(R.A.) |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Fulfilled the prediction
of Ala Hazrat Ashrafi Mian (R.A.) by making a great
development in Khanquahe Ashrafia Hasania. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Made the Khanquah
Ashrafia reach on the peak of progress. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Follower of Sunnat
and Tariqual in every action. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Discharged rights
of slaves strictly. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Strict punctual
of Five times of prayer and Wajebat (obligatory). |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Allah fearing and
embodiment of sanctified character and behaviour. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Confluence of Shariat
and Tariquat impressing learned men and Mashaiekh of
His time. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Helper and supporter
of distressed. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Matchless obedient
to his mother. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
A great benefactor,
kind hearted, generous and hospitable. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Father of Shaikh-e-Azam Hazrat Maulana Sayed Izhar Ashraf Sajjadah Nashin. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
A costly asset
of life, a great benefactor and guide of Hazarat Quaede
Millat Maulana Syed Mahmood Ashraf wali Ahad Janashin. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Undoubtedly GHOUS
of his time whose fountain of faizan is still continuing. |
| Syed Mohd. Mokhtar Ashraf (R.A.)
: |
Millons of disciples
spread in India & Abroad. |
|
