The contrast between dirty streets outside and the holiness of the shrine inside, was amazingly overwhelming
ISLAMABAD: A chance to explore the real Lahore — historical and mystic — revealed to me what remained long forgotten in the hustles of the modern city. The shrine of Mian Mir was packed with beggars lining the way to the entrance, in the hope of a few rupees. Their helplessness was evident on their faces. The poverty I witnessed around the shrine of Mian Mir vanished as soon as I stepped onto the white marbled floors. The scent of red roses drew me closer to eternal serenity away from the chaotic world outside.
From narrow and poverty-stricken streets, into the sacredness of scented roses and candles, it was an exhilarating experience throughout. The pigeons flying above and fluttering their wings in joy remained oblivious to the miseries of those underneath.
The contrast between dirty streets outside and the holiness of the shrine inside, was amazingly overwhelming. Immensely touched by the magnificent Mughal architecture, we almost forgot that we were barefoot on the sacred piece of land.
It seemed that the cool breeze took away the sorrows of those praying in the hope of inner salvation. Most of them were unaware of its historical significance; yet they discovered a spiritual connection which brought onto them, a sense of calmness and serenity, never known before.
It was indeed a soulful odyssey, from Mian Mir’s shrine to Sinclair Hall — where we helped our class at Forman Christian College, Lahore, rehearse for a play, The Trial of Dara Shikoh by Professor Akbar Ahmed. It felt as if we were trying to pass the spiritual legacy of a mentor to his disciples.
Very few knew who Dara Shikoh was. The noble prince-heir apparent of Shah Jahan, cherished and admired equally by the Hindu and Sikh community, was a disciple to Mian Mir, and a Sufi scholar at heart.
We are hopeful to revive Pakistan into a more inclusive and tolerant land — where we can recognise differences, yet cherish them as valuable assets. It remains obligatory on each one of us, to visit and explore our own history of indigenous knowledge and draw upon examples of inclusiveness of the other.
Saleha Majeed
Published in The Express Tribune, August 21st, 2014.
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