Daily Times

Decorated with Kashi tiles, silver and gold, Lal Shahbaz Qalandar’s shrine was built in 1356. From the shrine’s first gate to the main entrance, I lost myself in its spiritual presence.

Though Qalandar, a Sufi saint and poet, was born in Maiwand in Afghanistan, his shrine is in Sehwan, a city located in the Jamshoro district of Sindh. People from different areas of Pakistan and other countries come to visit. The shrine’s shiny dome can be seen entering the city. It’s beauty is the center of attraction for Sehwan, giving the city its unique identity.

Also known as Syed Usman Marwandi, Qalandar was born in 1177. Devoted to spreading God’s message, he preached love and religious tolerance, earning the respect of people from all religions.

“Qalandar is our hope, his teachings have always given us strength to face difficulties and spreading the message of God,” said Sharjeel Talpur, a visitor to the shrine for 25 years from Pakistan’s northern areas.

Every year, more than two million pilgrims attend Qalandar’s annual fair. The song, “Dama Dam Mast Qalandar,” written in the 13th century by Amir Khusrow in Qalandar’s honor, describes Qalandar’s teachings.

Qalandar left the world on February, 12, 1274, the residents of Sehwan and the visitors to the shrine say, but his teachings are still alive and will remain till the end of time.