This is the 21st article in a special series by Ally Adnan that brings to life memorable incidents from the rich and fascinating life of Hazrat Amir Khusrau, whose timeless legacy continues to inspire the world.
One night, Amir Khusrau arrived late at Nizamuddin Auliya’s khanqah after the doors had been locked. He did not want to disturb his master but wished to be near him. He chose not to return home and lay down on the ground outside the door to Nizamuddin Auliya’s chamber. He wished to remain near his master, even if he could not be with him inside the room.
In the morning, when Nizamuddin Auliya stepped out, he was surprised to find Khusrau sleeping at his doorstep. He woke him up gently and asked why he had not gone home when he found the doors locked. Khusrau replied, “If I cannot be with you inside, I would rather be at your feet,” demonstrating profound humility and devotion to his master. Nizamuddin Auliya responded, “Your place is not at my feet, Khusrau. You live in my heart,” expressing the deep affection and esteem in which he held Amir Khusrau.
The brief but luminous exchange has been preserved in numerous written and oral traditions for centuries. It beautifully illustrates the sacred bond between pir and murid by portraying Khusrau’s profound humility and devotion and Nizamuddin’s deep and sincere love for his disciple.
The writer is based in Dallas, Texas and writes about culture, history and the arts. He tweets @allyadnanjanjua and can be reached at [email protected]