For centuries, the Sarwari Qadri order has maintained the tradition of spiritual congregations. These gatherings adhere strictly to Islamic and Sharia principles, prohibiting any deviation from tradition or law. These gatherings commence with the recitation of the Holy Quran and poetry extolling the grandeur of Prophet Mohammad. Following the nature of the event, the devotees deliver relevant eulogies and speeches. The spiritual assembly concludes with supplications and salutations to the Holy Prophet along with prayers (dua).
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman, upon embracing the mantle of Divine guidance, initiated and continues to perpetuate these spiritual gatherings. The objective is to disseminate the teachings of Faqr (Sufism) among the masses. These gatherings aim to enlighten individuals about the essence and soul of Islam-Faqr, drawing insights from sources like the Quran, Hadiths, People of the Cloak, Companions, and Mystic Saints. Moreover, the seekers of Allah have the invaluable opportunity to receive spiritual benevolence and alchemic attention from the enlightened company of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, the perfect spiritual guide.
Spiritual Gatherings at Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen House
(14th August till 23rd October 2009)
Initially, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen designated his residence as a hub for spiritual congregations. Tehreek Dawt-e-Faqr organized men’s gatherings on the 2nd floor, while those for women on the ground floor of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen House. These spiritual assemblies persisted at this location from 14th August 2005 until 22nd October 2009.
Spiritual Gatherings at Khanqah Sarwari Qadri
(23rd October 2009 till 30th August 2020)
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen established the Khanqah Sarwari Qadri on Friday, 23rd October 2009 (3rd Dhul al-Qadah 1430 AH). This was the inheritance house of his wife, which he donated for the activities of the organization led by his spiritual guide. After his death, the organization continued to utilize the house for that purpose. Later, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen established the Khanqah Sarwari Qadri at this location. Subsequently, he shifted all spiritual gatherings for men to this new Khanqah. Due to the limited space, proper arrangement for women’s gathering was not feasible at this Khanqah while ensuring their privacy. As a result, he continued to hold all spiritual congregations for women at his residence. Currently, the Khanqah Sarwari Qadri serves as the office for Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr and its various departments.
Spiritual Gatherings at the Zahra Mosque and Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen
Due to the growing number of disciples of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen and the limited space available at Khanqah Sarwari Qadri, he undertook the ambitious task of constructing a new Khanqah (spiritual center) and mosque. He announced the commencement of this significant project during the auspicious occasion of Mawlid an-Nabi on Friday, 1st December 2017 (12th Rabi al-Awwal 1439 AH) and urged his disciples to contribute to this esteemed cause.
In July 2019, he found a suitable piece of land at an affordable price, situated approximately 30 km from Lahore in Rangeelpur Sharif. This location is about 5 km from Sundar Adda on Multan Road and roughly 4 km from the bank of the Ravi River. On Friday, 12th July 2019 (9th Dhul al-Qadah 1440 AH), he bought the land and initiated the construction of the section of Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen designated for spiritual gatherings. He laid the foundation of the grand project, encompassing Zahra Mosque and Khanqah Sultan ul Ashiqeen, on Eid ul Adha, Saturday, 1st August 2020 (10th Dhul al-Hijjah 1441 AH).
Shift of All Spiritual Gatherings to Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen
The section of Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen designated for spiritual congregations was finalized on August 30, 2020 (10th Muharram 1442 AH). Subsequently, all spiritual gatherings conducted by Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr, under the supervision of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, have been hosted in this newly constructed Khanqah. Mehfil Zikr-e-Hussain was the first spiritual event at Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. It was held on 30th August 2020. Currently, Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr hold both men’s and women’s spiritual gatherings at Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen and Zahra Mosque. In order to prioritize security and uphold the privacy of women attendees, the organization has implemented dedicated measures.
Weekly Gatherings
Mehfil Nur-e-Mustafa, Bazm-e-Bahoo, Bazm-e-Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen
The section of Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen designated for spiritual congregations was finalized on August 30, 2020 (10th Muharram 1442 AH). Subsequently, all spiritual gatherings conducted by Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr, under the supervision of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, have been hosted in this newly constructed Khanqah. Mehfil Zikr-e-Hussain was the first spiritual event at Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. It was held on 30th August 2020. Currently, Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr hold both men’s and women’s spiritual gatherings at Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen and Zahra Mosque. In order to prioritize security and uphold the privacy of women attendees, the organization has implemented dedicated measures.
Starting from September 2022, a modification was introduced refining the format of these gatherings. Every Sunday, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen would provide an exegesis of Sultan Bahoo’s poetry (Abyat-e-Bahoo) which would be referred to as “Bazm-e-Bahoo”. Furthermore, he dedicated specific Sundays to address the questions and inquiries of his disciples about Sufism. These assemblies would be titled “Bazm-e-Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen”.
Schedule of the Weekly Gatherings
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen visits Khanqah every Saturday afternoon, which attracts his devoted followers from Lahore and other regions. They subsequently partake in the Nur-e-Mustafa gathering on Sunday. These gatherings are not held in certain months, such as the chilly months of December, January, and February. In these months, the extreme cold, fog, and smog make it impractical for devotees to attend. Similarly, during the scorching weather of May, June, July, and the month of Ramadan, the spiritual assemblies are put on hold to avoid inconveniencing women and children traveling from distant areas. Notwithstanding these months, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen still meets devotees every Saturday and Sunday. Additionally, a concise spiritual session lasting 20 to 30 minutes is conducted on Sundays. In this meeting Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen interacts with each individual and bestows spiritual blessings upon his devotees.
Apart from Saturdays and Sundays, Sahibzada Sultan Mohammad Murtaza Najib visits the Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen from Tuesday to Thursday. Devotees come to seek spiritual guidance from him during these days as well.
Annual Gatherings
Mawlid-e-Mustafa celebrating Eid Mawlid an-Nabi
Muslims consider being part of Prophet Mohammad’s umma an unparalleled blessing. An honour that even numerous prophets aspired to possess. Indeed, why wouldn’t they, for Prophet Mohammad is the beloved of Allah. He is the axis around which the cosmos dances and the radiant cause behind the creation of this vast universe. So revered that the Creator celebrated his birth, illuminating the universe in his honour. Angels joined this celestial jubilation, showering their benevolent salutations upon his esteemed soul.
This tradition of celebrating the Prophet’s birth resonates through the annals of time, embraced not only by earthly beings but by the luminaries of heavens, the Saints, the scholars, and the prophets. In the sacred month of Rabi al-Awwal, the hearts of ardent devotee’s overflow with a deluge of salutations, as if every heartbeat were a love-laden tribute to the Prophet. On this consecrated day, mosques and homes gleam with the luminance of lights, streets are adorned with pennant flags and banners. An atmosphere of aura of festivity radiates a celebratory spirit and ethereal energy that weaves souls together. People gather in unison for spiritual congregations, sharing feasts and distributing desserts.
The atmosphere resonates with the heartfelt recitation of poetry extolling Prophet Mohammad’s virtues. This is a day when hearts brim with love for the Prophet and the values he epitomized. Devotees seize every opportunity to shower admiration and salutations upon Prophet Mohammad. As the ultimate essence of faith lies in loving the Prophet and remembering him in every moment.
Reverence of Sarwari Qadri Saints for Prophet Mohammad
The Sarwari Qadri Saints meticulously emulate the footsteps of Prophet Mohammad, embodying his Sunna in every aspect of their life. They are at the level of annihilation in Prophet Mohammad and annihilation and immortality with Allah. Their personality is so intertwined with the Holy Prophet that their every action resonates with the essence of Mohammadan Faqr. Beyond commemorating Mawlid an-Nabi on 12th Rabi awwal, they spark jubilant congregations in his honour wherever they tread. Eid Mawlid an-Nabi specifically holds more celebratory significance to them compared to Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Therefore, it is a tradition of the Sarwari Qadri Mystics to hold a grand ceremony of Mawlid an-Nabi, symbolizing their deep veneration for the Prophet.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s Enthusiasm of Celebrating Mawlid an-Nabi
The Mohammadan Assembly granted Sultan Mohammad Najib-ur-Rehman with the title of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen which means “Sultan of the Divine Lovers.” A Divine lover dedicates every moment in reverence to Allah and His Prophet. If the state of lover is such esteemed, imagine what would be the level of the faith of the Sultan! Indeed, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen wholeheartedly devoted his every possession, rather moment of life in the propagation of the Mohammadan Faqr. Every year on the occasion of Eid Mawlid an-Nabi he holds a grand ceremony in his honour which signifies his deep veneration for the Prophet. He is the pioneer Sarwari Qadri Saint in starting the tradition of regularly celebrating Eid Mawlid an-Nabi on a large scale every year.
When Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen started Divine guidance and persuasion, Eid Mawlid an-Nabi ceremony was held at his house. Since at that time not many devotees had joined his circle. With the increasing number of his disciples, the Mawlid ceremonies of men shifted to Khanqah Sarwari Qadri, while that of women remained at Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen House. Due to Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s religious tours throughout the country and his literary work on Sufism to propagate Faqr, number of his disciples increased exponentially. A time came that on the occasion of Eid Mawlid an-Nabi ceremony so many disciples would gather that it became practically impossible to contain such large number of people at his residence and Khanqah Sarwari Qadri.
Eid Mawlid an-Nabi Organized by Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr
In November 2020, Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr organized the first grand ceremony of Eid Mawlid an-Nabi at Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. Thousands of disciples and devotees attended this ceremony. Since then, all the Mawlid ceremonies convene here under the special guidance and supervision of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr send special invitations to devotees across the globe. The administrative committee, Majlis-e-Shura and General council call meetings to strategically organize the grand event. They assign duties like arrangement of langar, event decoration and management to ensure systematic execution.
From 1st Rabi awwal, Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, Khanqah Sarwari Qadri and Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen House illuminate with colourful lights which stay up till 12th Rabi awwal. Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr sets a grand canopy where the event takes place. Furthermore, they place a red carpet on the entrance of the canopy from where Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen walks by among the disciples. They decorate the streets and the road outside the canopy with flowers and banners welcoming Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. The fragrance of flowers, banners and decorations creates a vibrant celebratory aura in the atmosphere.
Welcome of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen and the Event
This celebration of the grand event is further elevated with the arrival of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, and the air is echoed with the slogans. The devotees line up along the street, impatiently waiting for his arrival. The moment he arrives, everyone’s face is lit with an unexplainable gleam and delight. As if their thirst is quenched upon beholding the Divine countenance of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. Everyone warmly welcomes him by showering rose petals on him and his car. When he steps out of his car, the administration presents him with beautiful bouquets. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen proceeds through the crowd towards stage, placing his right hand on his chest symbolizing his greeting and acknowledgment to the warm welcome.
Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr then formally commences the event with the recitation of Holy Quran. The devotees read several hymns, encomiums and speeches in the honour and praise of the Prophet. On this auspicious occasion, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen grants Ism-e-Mohammad to the fortunate seekers of Allah. As the ceremony concludes, everyone stands up to send salutations to the Prophet Mohammad. After dua (supplication prayer), Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen individually meets each devotee and then langar is served.
Sultan-ul-Faqr publications department sets up their book stall, showcasing all the literary work of Sultan Bahoo and Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen they have published. They display an array of accessories like posters, watches, key chains, mugs, pens and pictures of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. Furthermore, on this auspicious occasion they mark all books and accessories at a specially discounted price.
Mawlid-e-Mustafa on the Day of Transference of Faqr
21st March is the auspicious day when after sunset salat, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s spiritual guide, Sultan-ul-Faqr VI Sultan Mohammad Asghar Ali transferred to him the trust of Faqr. This significant event took place in Madina in front of the tomb of Prophet Mohammad, upon his approval and order. This is the day when Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen was selected by the Mohammadan Assembly as the 31st Sarwari Qadri Saint and leader. This day holds enduring auspiciousness and will remain of celebratory significance till Doomsday. The disciples and devotees of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen celebrate this day with joy and reverence.
The tradition of celebrating Mawlid an-Nabi on 21st March started in 2012. Initially Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr celebrated this ceremony on a small scale. Gradually, the seekers of Allah begin to celebrate this event at a grand level. Now they hold a grand event of Mawlid an-Nabi every year at Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. The disciples and devotees of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen come to attend this event not just from across the country but across the world which signifies their excitement for this revered event.
Briefing of the Event
Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr meticulously orchestrates preparations for this significant occasion. The disciples align in rows holding the rose petals to welcome Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. They are eager to catch a glimpse of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen as he bestows serenity to their inward. As soon as Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s car arrives, an aura of exuberance and excitement envelopes the atmosphere. The eulogist eloquently recites encomiums welcoming Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, and air resonates with fervent slogans like, Imam-e-Mubeen (the elucidating leader) —Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, Mujaddid-e-Deen (reviver of religion) — Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. Rose petals are showered upon Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, and he is presented with exquisite flower arrangement. It is an ultimate gleaming moment to see the faces of the disciples glow with pure joy and excitement of gazing at Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen.
Once Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen settles on the stage, the ceremony commences with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by hymns in honour of Prophet Mohammad and eulogies extolling the grandeur of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. It is his spiritual benevolence that many of his disciples are able to write poetry in his grandeur. Remarkably among these disciples are individuals who previously possessed no aptitude or inclination for poetry, yet now they craft earnest eulogies that exalt Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen with profound sincerity. Some disciples also deliver speeches that expound on the spiritual benevolence of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. On this propitious occasion, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen bestows Ism-e-Mohammad to fortunate seekers of Allah.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen individually meets every Disciple.
Following a devotional session involving the recitation of the Quran, supplications, and the reverential recitation of Durood, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen personally meets each individual in attendance. Subsequently, he proceeds to the assembly of female disciples, where he meets them in the presence of his wife. In a manner consistent with previous occasions, the stall affiliated with Sultan-ul-Faqr publications proudly showcases an array of books authored by Sultan Bahoo and Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen, along with various related accessories, all available at significantly discounted rates.
Sultan-ul-Faqr VI Sultan Mohammad Asghar Ali in his life, consistently commemorated the Mawlid an-Nabi annually on the 12th and 13th of April. Since this was the day his spiritual guide, Sultan Mohammad Abdul Aziz, entrusted him with the Trust of Faqr in the year 1979. Thus, celebrating the day of transference of Faqr is the Sunna of his spiritual guide. Surprisingly, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen pledged allegiance to Sultan-ul-Faqr VI on the same date of 12th April.
Mehfil Zikr-e-Hussain
Love and devotion for the People of Cloak is the part and parcel of the faith. These sacred personalities are like the torch of guidance for the seekers of Allah on the path of Faqr. Especially the bravery and valour displayed by Imam Hussain in Karbala is an ultimate example of faith for the Divine lovers. The sacrifice of Imam Hussain granted immortality and honour to Islam. His exemplary sacrifice of submission to Allah’s will forever be inscribed with the golden words in the history of Islam.
The Sarwari Qadri Saints have special regard for Imam Hussain. Thus, on Ashura day they commemorate a gathering in his honour. These assemblies are characterized by impassioned speeches and heartfelt eulogies, narrating the life, teachings, and indomitable spirit of the Karbala martyrs. Such commemorations serve to kindle the flames of ardor within seekers of Allah, inspiring them to draw strength from these revered figures and unhesitatingly relinquish all they possess in the cause of Allah and the Mohammadan religion.
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s Love and Reverence for Imam Hussain
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s life is a testament to his complete submission to Allah’s will. He imparts this very lesson to his disciples, drawing parallels from the life of Imam Hussain. His eyes brim with tears each time he speaks of the revered Hussain. He describes the events of Karbala in picturesque words that ignite the faith of his disciples, etching an enduring mark of inspiration on their souls. This fervour propels them to tirelessly seek ways to serve the cause of the Mohammadan religion, mirroring the examples set by the People of the Cloak.
Annually, on the 10th of Muharram, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen orchestrates an event as a tribute to the martyrs of Karbala, named “Mehfil Zikr-e-Hussain.” This event serves as a platform for imbibing the lessons of courage, sacrifice, and the unwavering resistance against oppression, exemplified by the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. His resolute stand offers seekers of Allah invaluable teachings on the significance of dedicating even their lives in the way of Allah.
As the event culminates, fervent prayers and supplications are offered to honor and revere the memory of the martyrs of Karbala, Imam Hussain, and the People of the Cloak. Subsequently, disciples have the privilege of meeting Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. Then langar is served. Due to transportation constraints on the Day of Ashura because of nationwide processions, attending this event is not obligatory for devotees of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. However, those unable to attend can watch the live transmission of the event from the comfort of their homes.
Urs al-Ghawth al-Azam Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani
Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen holds a profound reverence and devotion for al-Ghawth al-Azam Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani. He firmly asserts that Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani remains vibrant in both the material and spiritual realms, commanding authority over the inner and outer dimensions of existence. He is the vicegerent of the Holy Prophet and holds an exalted pinnacle Faqr. Indeed, his foot is on the neck of other Saints, and no one can ever attain sainthood and elevated level in Mysticism without his sacred spiritual attention. This is why Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen consistently celebrates the Urs ceremony of al-Ghawth al-Azam, with utmost devotion and respect.
Pattern of Event
The Urs ceremony commences with the recitation of the Holy Quran and melodious hymns in homage to the Holy Prophet, followed by poetic eulogies extolling the virtues of Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani. Disciples deliver speeches detailing his magnificence, life, and teachings, inspiring the audience to emulate his path in their pursuit of Faqr. The ceremony concludes with fervent prayers and salutations in honour of Prophet Mohammad, succeeded by an elaborate communal meal, langar. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen then personally meets all attendees and prays for them.
This inclusive event accommodates a significant number of women as well. Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr make special arrangements to safeguard their privacy. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen has upheld the tradition of hosting the Urs ceremony in honour of al-Ghawth al-Azam since he assumed the mantle of Divine guidance. Similar to Mawlid an-Nabi observed on the 12th Rabi awwal and 21st March, attendance at this ceremony is not obligatory for disciples. Nonetheless, thousands of devotees, not only from Lahore but also from distant regions, converge to partake in the ceremony, seeking spiritual blessings.
Urs Sultan Bahoo
Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr celebrates Urs Sultan Bahoo on the first Thursday of Jumada ath-thani, under Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s supervision. As he has ardently and zealously upheld this tradition since assuming the mantle of Divine guidance. Initially the organization hosted Urs ceremony at Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen House and then Khanqah Sarwari Qadri. Now a grand ceremony is conducted every year at Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen.
Efforts of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen to propagate Teachings of Sultan Bahoo
With each passing year the number of seekers attending the Urs ceremony has increased. It is a testament to the tireless efforts of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen in propagating the teachings of Sultan Bahoo around the globe. Sultan-ul-Faqr publications is pioneer in translating numerous Sultan Bahoo’s Persian books in both Urdu and English language significantly contributing to dissemination of his teachings.
Moreover, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen made a video series on YouTube dedicated to unravelling the intricate meanings of Sultan Bahoo’s poetry. Undoubtedly, this is a torch of guidance for the seekers of the path of Faqr. No one in the past has been able to provide full exegesis with the literal meanings of difficult words of his poetry. The recording of these videos took almost a year to complete. Such tireless efforts of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen attracted seekers of Allah from all over the world to especially visit Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen to attend the grand Urs ceremony of Sultan Bahoo.
Pattern of Sultan Bahoo Urs Ceremony
Similar to the pattern of other events, the Urs ceremony commences with the recitation of the Holy Quran and hymns in honour of Prophet Mohammad. Followed by eulogies and speeches describing the grandeur, life and teachings of Sultan Bahoo. The culmination entails prayer and supplications, concluded with serving an elaborate communal meal, langar. Attendees also have the privilege of meeting Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. Although attending Urs Sultan Bahoo is also not obligatory for Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s disciples, yet an overwhelming number of devotees, both local and international, gather annually to partake in this profound ceremony.
Event celebrating the birthday of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen
The 19th of August marks the birthday of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. An occasion that devotees of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen cherish and celebrate with fervor. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s disciples initiated the tradition of celebrating his birthday. Indeed, this is an expression of their gratitude in Allah’s Divine court, acknowledging the blessing of his sacred presence. As it is through his profound spiritual benevolence and attentive care, that his disciples triumph over both internal and external trials and endeavors. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s magnanimity further facilitates his disciples’ access to Ism-e-Allah Zaat and Ism-e-Mohammad, thereby unlocking the gates of gnosis of Allah and presence in the Mohammadan Assembly.
A Grand Celebration by Disciples of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen
Initially, the intimate circle of close disciples celebrated his birthday at Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen House and Khanqah Sarwari Qadri. However, driven by the growing zeal and enthusiasm of countless devotees, the celebration has evolved into a grand event hosted at Khanqah Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. On this occasion, the administration of Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr adorns Khanqah with vibrant flowers and colourful banners. When Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen arrives, a shower of rose petals greets him, accompanied by the presentation of exquisite flower bouquets. Also, the air resounds with fervent slogans and praises that resonate with the devotees’ enthusiastic admiration.
The event’s structure mirrors other occasions, commencing with the name of Allah and His Prophet. Followed by eulogies and speeches extolling Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s greatness. Before the communal meal, a cake-cutting ceremony takes place. Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr arranges a splendid custom-made cake to honour Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. Both men and women partake in the festivities, presenting gifts to Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. Disciples residing out of Pakistan share in the radiant moments through live telecasts, connecting them with the jubilant celebration.
Upon returning home, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen is greeted by abundant floral displays and cakes, sent by overseas disciples. He personally expresses his gratitude to them through a video meeting. The birthday celebration of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen is a reflection of the profound respect and affection his disciples and devotees hold for him.
Eid Milan Ceremony
After a month of fasting during Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr on the 1st of Shawal. Allah says, “Fasting is for Me and I am the reward for it.” This signifies that those who fast with the intention of attaining Allah’s proximity receive the Divine on Eid day. Muslims celebrate Eid al-Adha to honour the Sunna of the remarkable sacrifice carried out by Prophet Abraham. However, the celebrations of both Eids remain incomplete for seekers of Allah without beholding Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen. As he has effectively made the journey of Divine recognition and closeness to Allah accessible to all. Thus, bringing contentment and tranquility to those who connect with him.
Consequently, Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr organizes gatherings on the occasions of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, drawing a substantial number of seekers of Allah. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen conveys his Eid greetings to men through warm embraces and puts a hand of affection on the head of female disciples. These gatherings conclude with the provision of a generous communal langar (meal). Until the year 2021, these gatherings traditionally took place after the sunset prayer on Eid day. However, recognizing the inconvenience this posed for female and out-of-town disciples, Tehreek Dawat-e-Faqr adjusted the schedule starting from 2022. These gatherings now occur the day after Eid, following the midday prayer, to accommodate a broader participation.
Gatherings during Spiritual Tours
According to Sultan Bahoo’s teachings, a Fakir extends his spiritual blessings through journeys. Therefore, upon ascending the seat of Divine guidance and enlightenment, Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen embarked on spiritual voyages throughout the country. He ventured into distant cities and villages to disseminate the teachings of Faqr and Ism-e-Allah Zaat. In these journeys, millions of seekers of Allah were fortunate to receive Ism-e-Allah Zaat from him, with or without pledging allegiance on his hand. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s life emulates that of Prophet Mohammad at every juncture. Whenever he guides seekers of Allah, he gives references from the life of the Prophet.
During his spiritual sojourns, the houses he visits become crowded with devotees, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of Mawlid an-Nabi. Devotees unite to recite hymns extolling the grandeur and virtues of the Holy Prophet. These events culminate with the sharing of a communal meal, langar. Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen’s fervent love for Prophet Mohammad is undeniable. He expresses a desire to conduct Mawlid an-Nabi gatherings daily. Indeed, it is a testament to his unwavering passion for honouring the beloved Prophet. Such actions of Sultan-ul-Ashiqeen embodies the profound love for the Holy Prophet.