The shrine of Sachal Sarmast, located in Daraza Sharif, near Sanghar in Sindh, Pakistan, stands as a profound testament to the life and legacy of one of the region’s most revered mystic poets and Sufi saints. Sachal Sarmast, known for his deep spiritual poetry and teachings on divine love, equality, and social justice, continues to inspire millions of devotees and admirers. His shrine not only serves as a sacred site for spiritual reflection but also as a vibrant center of cultural and religious significance in Sindh.
Daraza Sharif, the village where the shrine is situated, has become a pilgrimage destination for people from various parts of Pakistan and beyond. The shrine attracts visitors year-round, but it is particularly revered during the annual urs (death anniversary) of Sachal Sarmast, which is celebrated with great devotion and fervor. The urs, held on 13th of Safar (the second month of the Islamic lunar calendar), is a time when devotees gather to commemorate the life and teachings of the saint. This occasion is marked by devotional music, including the Qawwali performances that echo the verses of Sarmast’s poetry, and spiritual gatherings that emphasize his message of love, peace, and human equality.
The shrine itself is a beautiful structure, decorated with intricate carvings and mosaic tiles, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Sindh. The tomb of Sachal Sarmast is surrounded by lush gardens and courtyards, creating a peaceful ambiance conducive to prayer and meditation. Visitors often come to offer flowers, incense, and candles as symbols of respect, while many also seek blessings for peace, spiritual growth, and fulfillment of wishes.
What makes the shrine particularly unique is the inclusive atmosphere that surrounds it. People from different religious and cultural backgrounds come to pay their respects, reflecting Sachal Sarmast’s message of unity and harmony across faiths. His teachings of spiritual tolerance and humanitarian values continue to resonate with people of all walks of life.
The shrine also acts as a cultural hub, where the rich traditions of Sindhi music, poetry, and dance are preserved and celebrated. Devotional Sufi music, including Sindhi folk songs and Qawwali, is performed regularly, keeping the spirit of Sachal Sarmast alive through the arts. The shrine, thus, stands not only as a place of spiritual reverence but also as a center for Sindhi culture and mysticism, promoting the timeless messages of peace, love, and universal brotherhood that Sachal Sarmast championed in his poetry.
In conclusion, the shrine of Sachal Sarmast is more than just a burial site—it is a vibrant symbol of the poet’s profound influence on both the spiritual and cultural fabric of Sindh. For those seeking solace, spiritual guidance, or a deeper connection to Sindhi mysticism, it remains a powerful destination where the teachings of divine love and compassion continue to thrive.
