Karachi, A panel discussion on “Sufism” was recently organized by the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi in collaboration with the Endowment Fund Trust for the Preservation of the Heritage of Sindh. The event took place at the Ahmed Shah Auditorium II, drawing a large audience that included scholars from various fields.

According to Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, the session was chaired by Hameed Haroon and featured prominent speakers such as Noorul Huda Shah, Dr. Syed Jaffar Ahmed, Hameed Akhund, Munawar Ali Mahesar, Professor K.S. Nagpal, and Dr. Rafiq Wassan. These experts shared their insights into the philosophical and cultural dimensions of Sufism, highlighting its relevance and transformation in modern times.

The discussion delved into various aspects of Sufism, contrasting it with formal religious practices and emphasizing its foundation in human rights and love. Noorul Huda Shah remarked on the historical and spiritual significance of figures like Rabia Basri and Khwaja Hasan Basri, pointing out that true Sufism involves a deep engagement with love and justice, often standing in opposition to oppression.

Kamil Khan Mumtaz, an architect and artist who has transitioned towards studying Sufism, spoke about his personal journey into the realm of spiritual education, driven by a desire to fill the gaps in his understanding of local heritage and culture. Other speakers, including Munawar Ali Mahesar and Jami Chandio, discussed the intrinsic connection between Sufism and love, as reflected in the poetry of Sachal Sarmast and the broader application of Sufi principles in art and literature.

The panel concluded with a reaffirmation of the importance of Sufism in fostering social harmony and scientific inquiry in the modern era, as encapsulated in the teachings of Shah Latif and other Sufi scholars.