A SAINT OF YORE Maulana Syed Mohammad Yasin Shah Gilani

                              Saint of Yore

 

Maulana  Syed  Mohammad  Yasin  Shah  Gilani

By SYED MAJID GILANI

Born on July 18, 1890, in the historic Khanquah Moulla, Maulana Syed Mohammad Yasin Shah Gilani’s life became a shining testament to resilience, cultural preservation, and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Despite not having formal education in English, mathematics, or science, he acquired profound Islamic knowledge, spiritual wisdom, and a deep understanding of Fiqah, Quran, and Hadith. He was a polyglot, well-versed in Persian, Urdu, and Kashmiri languages.

Inspired by his paternal grandfather’s legacy, Hazrat Syed Mohammad Fazil Shah Gilani RA, whose revered mausoleum lies within the sacred Dastgeer Sahib Shrine in Khanyar, Srinagar, Maulana embarked on a journey of spiritual discovery, following in the footsteps of his illustrious ancestor. Maulana’s spiritual journey was a deep dive into the ocean of faith, where he immersed himself in the recitation of the Qurani Pak, fervent supplications, Zikr o Azkar, Chilla Kashi, and devout remembrances. Under the guidance of his father, the venerable Peer o Murshid Syed Ghulam ud din Gilani, he steadfastly pursued Riyazat, a path of spiritual discipline and self-purification. His family’s roots, tracing back to Baghdad, had instilled in him a profound thirst for spiritual knowledge, which only grew stronger as he delved deeper into his studies.

His association with his father’s spiritual legacy kindled a burning desire to explore the realms of religion and spirituality, a flame that continued to illuminate his life’s journey. Beyond his professional expertise as an Unani treatment specialist, Maulana’s passion for Islamic history and Fiqah only intensified, fuelling his insatiable quest for knowledge and spiritual growth. Maulana was entrusted with a precious legacy by his father – a treasure trove of ancestral manuscripts in Persian, passed down through generations. His fervour for knowledge and intellectual pursuits remained unwavering, as he committed himself to preserving the family’s rich cultural heritage. This dedication was a testament to his unshakeable resolve to honor his ancestors and uphold the values they embodied. Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Prophet Hazrat Mohammad (PBUH), Maulana’s life exemplified humility, compassion, and righteousness.

With unwavering determination, he strove to emulate the virtues of his forefathers, standing firm in their beliefs and principles, and ensuring the continuation of their noble legacy. In his relentless quest for spiritual guidance and Islamic knowledge, Maulana Syed Mohammad Yasin Shah Gilani embarked on a journey that took him to distant lands, traversing Jammu and Kashmir, Rawalpindi, Pakistan Punjab, and Baghdad. As an Unani practitioner, he not only healed bodies with herbs and remedies but also soothed souls with compassion and empathy. Despite his limited financial means, entirely dependent on his expertise in Unani treatment, he undertook the arduous journey of Hajj by sea, a six-month voyage that cost him merely a few hundred rupees. This remarkable feat testified to his unwavering commitment to his faith and his refusal to commercialize spirituality, unlike many of his contemporaries.

For him, spirituality was a sacred calling, not a means to accumulate wealth or fame. Maulana’s life was a testament to modesty and humility, as he lived with grace and dignity, shunning worldly extravagance. His home was adorned with earthen pots and vessels, a reflection of his simplicity. Though he spoke little, his writings in Persian and Urdu were prolific, and we are fortunate to have preserved his manuscripts, letters, and travel diaries as a treasure. He adhered to the Shariah with unwavering dedication, never straying from its boundaries. In his sermons, he emphasized the importance of following the Shariah, guiding his followers, disciples, and mureeds on the righteous path. One of his remarkable distinctions was completing 40 consecutive chilla (seclusion) spells, each lasting 40 days, in the solitude rooms (chilla kothri) within the Khanquah Moulla Shrine in Srinagar, a feat he accomplished 40 times during his lifetime, a testament to his unwavering devotion and spiritual discipline. The monthly gatherings of ‘Anjumane Tabligul Islam’ were frequently hosted at Maulana’s residence, at Khanquah Moulla, attracting esteemed religious and spiritual leaders from various parts of Kashmir. Prominent among these dignitaries was a famous religious and spiritual personality Syed Noor ud din Geelani of Riyazat Teng, Khanyar. The meetings were graced and presided over by the renowned Mufasir Quran, Moulana Syed Mohammad Qasim Shah Bukhari RA, who served as the President of the organization. Maulana Syed Mohammad Yasin Shah Gilani was an esteemed member of the Anjuman. The primary objective of Anjuman Tabligul Islam was to disseminate the teachings and mission of Prophet Hazrat Mhammad PBUH and Auliya e Kiram (Islamic saints and mystics) among the masses, promoting spiritual awareness and enlightenment. These gatherings facilitated a platform for scholarly discussions, spiritual guidance, and community building, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Islamic values and traditions. Maulana Yasin Sahib’s kindness and generosity were legendary, always extending a helping hand to those in need.

His unwavering dedication to faith, family, and community serves as a shining beacon, inspiring generations in an ever-changing world. In 2018, I had the privilege of visiting Handwara in North Kashmir, invited by his disciples, followers, and family friends. During my journey, I passed through Magam, where I stumbled upon a remarkable discovery. On the wall of the Eid Gah, I found a marble plaque installed in 1955, and my heart swelled with pride as I saw my great grandfather’s name along with his residential address inscribed on it. He had founded and inaugurated this very Eid Gah, delivering the first sermon at the site. The engraved words on the plaque brought tears of joy to my eyes, as I felt a deep sense of connection to my heritage. The legacy of my great grandfather, immortalized in marble, stood as a testament to his enduring impact on the community. In that moment, I felt an overwhelming surge of pride, nostalgia, and gratitude.

The migration of Syed Ghulam ud din Gilani, father of Syed Mohammad Yasin Shah Gilani, from their ancestral home in Khanyar, Srinagar to Khanquah Moulla in 1872 AD (1289 Hijri) marked a significant turning point in the family’s history. However, the roots of the Gilani family in Srinagar can be traced back to the reign of Aurangzeb in 1322 AD (1095 Hijri), when Hazrat Syed Mohammad Fazil Gilani RA, the founder of Silsila Qariyah in Srinagar, first arrived in Khanyar. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in the Qadriyah legacy, which would go on to shape the spiritual and cultural landscape of the region in profound ways. Syed Muhammad Yasin Shah Gilani, inspired by his illustrious ancestors, spread wisdom and spiritual insights that resonated far and wide, attracting disciples and followers from diverse backgrounds who sought enlightenment and solace in his teachings. His legacy transcended geographical boundaries, inspiring countless individuals and cementing his place as a prominent spiritual personality in the Qadriyah tradition.

Maulana Yasin Sahib was the elder brother of famous Persian poet and scholar Syed Mubarak Shah Gilani alias ‘Fitrat’, who is having the distinction of founding “ Bazm Sadat e Gilani, Jammu and Kashmir’’, and serving as its lifetime president.  Maulana Yasin Sahib was blessed with four sons: Syed Mohammad Syed Gilani, Syed Ghulam Mohammad Gilani, Syed Abdul Rashid Gilani, and Syed Mohammad Yousuf Gilani. However, his life was not without its challenges. During his lifetime, he faced the devastating loss of his son Syed Ghulam Mohammad Gilani, who passed away while serving as a postmaster in Gilgit (now Pakistan), shortly after starting his government service. Another tragedy struck when his youngest son, Syed Mohammad Yousuf Gilani, left Kashmir in search of better job opportunities, unable to find suitable employment with his matriculation, Moulvi Aalim, and Fazil degrees. He migrated to Punjab (now Pakistan) in his teenage years, completed his graduation, and became a teacher in Muzaffarabad (now POK). Due to family reasons, he chose to serve and reside in Attock, Punjab, where he unfortunately passed away at the tender age of 50, while still in service. These successive blows could have shattered anyone, but Maulana Yasin Sahib remained steadfast, unwavering in his dedication to his family’s well-being and upbringing, inspiring resilience and strength in the face of adversity.

The timeless teachings of Maulana Syed Muhammad Yasin Shah Gilani continue to illuminate the path to spiritual growth, self-discovery, and inner peace, offering solace and enlightenment to all who seek guidance. The life and legacy of Maulana stand as a testament to the enduring power of spirituality, inspiring generations with its unwavering relevance. His impact continues to uplift and nourish those seeking spiritual guidance in a world filled with uncertainties. As a revered religious and spiritual personality, his disciples and followers across the valley remain a testament to his far-reaching influence. His precious manuscripts, sermons, and letters in Persian and Urdu remain a treasured heritage, carefully preserved for posterity. His devotees still visit his grave with love and reverence, honouring his selfless service and legacy.

After a brief illness, Maulana passed away peacefully at his residence, Maskani Sadaat, Khanquah Moulla, on April 19, 1966, at the age of 76. May Almighty Allah bless his pious soul in heaven. Maulana enjoyed good health throughout his life, but a week before his passing, he developed a chest infection and conjunction, which led to his brief illness. The renowned physician of Kashmir, Dr. Ali Mohammad Jan, visited him twice at his residence, Khanquah Moulla, and provided treatment. Despite the efforts, Maulana passed away peacefully in the evening hours of April 19, 1966, at the age of 76. At the insistence of his devoted disciples, followers, and mureeds, his body was kept at his home for the night, and the next morning, he was laid to rest in the Makbare Sadate Gilani, within the premises of the Shah Hamdan Shrine, Khanquah Moulla. Born on July 18, 1890, Maulana’s life spanned over 76 years, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual guidance, wisdom, and inspiration that continues to resonate with generations.

Syed Majid Gilani, GST Inspector and writer, is the great grandson of Late Maulana Syed Mohammad Yasin Shah Gilani. He can be reached at syedmajd6676@gmail.com