NEW BRUNSWICK,NJ: Sheikh Fariduddin Masoud’s poetry, that forms a part of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, was discussed at length by a panel at the annual conference of the Association of Asian Studies (Mid-Atlantic region) held at the Rutgers University over the weekend.
Akmal Aleemi of the Voice of America and Dr. Sunit Kaur of the Department of State presented papers respectively on the impact of Sheikh Farid’s poetry on the Punjabi literature and the similarities between the Muslim Sufi’s writings and Guru Nanak Dev’s teachings that are the basis of Sikhism.
Aleemi stated that the research conducted by the Punjabi Adabi Board, Lahore, has discovered many more Shalcks and hymns written by Sheikh Farid, the first recorded Punjabi poet. The writings had been scattered and hidden in several manuscripts dating from the 12th century. The complete works of Farid, titled “Aakhia Baba Farid Ne” (So said Baba Farid) edited by Mohammad Asif Khan and published by the Pakistani literary group includes 124 Shaloks and 4 hymns picked up by Guru Nanak Devji from the shrine of the Muslim saint, along with a large volume of newly found writings of the post who has been revered by Muslims and Sikhs for centuries.
Aleemi said Farid’s shrine continues to attract large number of devotees from all parts of Pakistan even at a time when the country is torn by the linguistic, tribal and regional prejudices, He said Farid’s message emphasizes man’s relationship with God and transcends all barriers that divide mankind. It provides effective safeguards against exploitation of man by man by exposing the fragility of life, he said.
Dr.Susjit Kaur said Farid rejected the prevalent notions of seeking the ultimate Truth in wilderness. Instead, he presented a role model by living a normal life and seeking a God fearing and harmonious society. She said the Muslim Sufi also discounted the idea of starving the human body to achieve salvation. Instead, he started a community kitchen that would feed anyone coming into his seminary. Both Sufi practices found way into the Sikh religious tradition strengthening the family system and institutionalizing the “Langar”. Farid’s preoccupation with death, she explained, is designed to save the soul from the fatal attractions of life.
Dr. Balwant Singh, professor of management, Bucknell University and Dr. Tej Pal Singh Saini, head, department of international economics, Bloomsburg University, led the lively discussion that followed the presentations.
Article extracted from this publication >> November 9, 1990
