قبة الاسلام پاٹ شریف کا تعارف و تاریخی اہمیت اور صدیقی خاندان کا حسب و نسب

INTRODUCTION AND HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF QUBBAT-UL-ISLAM PAT SHARIF AND THE LINEAGE OF THE SIDDIQUI FAMILY

Abstract

The land of Sindh, often called the most auspicious region of the Indian subcontinent, has a long and ancient civilization comparable to Egypt and Babylon. Traces of its early civilization are still visible in Mohen-jo-Daro, Larkana District. After the advent of Islam, Sindh became a Holy region, known as Bab-ul-Islam, where the rays of Islam first entered the subcontinent. Following Muhammad bin Qasim’s arrival, it emerged as a center of Islamic learning, attracting scholars, jurists, historians and saints from Arabia, Iraq and the East. Sindh has remained a cradle of knowledge, literature and spirituality, producing internationally renowned poets, jurists, Muhaddiths, historians and writers. Manuscripts of Sindhi scholars are preserved in global institutions, including Tokyo University, Al-Azhar University, King’s University (Saudi Arabia), El Escorial Library (Spain) and Topkapi Palace (Istanbul). Prominent historical cities such as Dibal, Mansura, Thatta and Pat Sharif hold immense academic and spiritual importance. Pat Sharif, located near Dadu district, was initially settled by the elders of Sheikh Yusuf Sindhi and became known as Qubat-ul-Islam. The town hosted saints, scholars and even royal figures, including King Humayun, who took refuge here and Emperor Akbar, who married Hamida Begum in this city. Despite repeated floods and invasions, the city’s residents rebuilt it continually. The decline of Pat Sharif by 1198 AH resulted from wars and migration. This historical city holds significance in spreading Islamic teachings, scholarly learning and spiritual guidance. Understanding the history, science and religion of Sindh’s ancient cities, particularly Pat Sharif is essential for appreciating the region’s cultural and intellectual heritage.