Mughal figures like Dara Shikoh and Jahanara Begum played a crucial role in supporting Sufi thought. Dara Shikoh’s Majma-ul-Bahrain sought to reconcile Islamic and Hindu mystical experiences, while Jahanara Begum’s patronage of Sufism fostered an environment of spiritual harmony
By Christina Ben
On August 2, 2024, the Islamic Studies Association hosted a compelling webinar, ‘The Mughals and Sufism: A Survey in Art and Architecture’, featuring Professor Michael D Calabria as the keynote speaker. Calabria is the Director of the Center for Arab and Islamic Studies at the Franciscan Institute, St Bonaventure University, New York. He is also, Associate Professor of Arab and Islamic Studies.
The event, chaired by Joseph Victor Edwin, explored the deep-seated connection between Sufism and the cultural context of the Mughal era. The discussion highlighted how the interaction between rulers and spiritual guides influenced Mughal art and architecture, transforming them into symbols of spiritual depth, rather than mere royal privilege.
Calabria began by defining Tasawwuf, building on Youseff Casewit’s interpretation. Casewit is an academic and a Quranic studies scholar. He described Tasawwuf as “any movement in Islam that seeks an intensely personal religious experience of God, beyond the necessities of law and theology”.
Sufism, according to him, involves a profound personal quest for divine matters and the pursuit of virtues associated with God’s 99 names. The ultimate aim of Sufis is to achieve union with God.
The Mughals sought to integrate Sufi principles, particularly those of the Chishti order, into their governance and architectural projects. Mughal architecture is often celebrated for embodying the Sufi aspiration for divine unity. This is reflected in the use of inscriptions, geometric patterns, and floral designs that symbolize the infinity of divinity.
Calabria emphasized that Sufi saint, Mu’in al-Din Chishti’s teachings, on the ‘oneness of being’ (wahdat al-wujud), were central to his philosophy, promoting peace and inclusivity across religious and social boundaries. This philosophical foundation had a significant influence on Mughal art, architecture, culture and administration.
The lecture highlighted how dargahs served as not only religious spaces, but also cultural and social centers where spiritual guidance was sought. Mughal emperors like Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jahan’s visits to these shrines underscored their reverence for Sufi saints and their involvement in Sufi practices.
Under Mughal patronage, Sufi arts included manuscripts, paintings and poetry designed to celebrate the mystical path of Sufism, inspiring viewers to embark on their own spiritual journey. The Sufi emphasis on love and compassion influenced the rulers’ efforts to foster peace and coexistence among diverse communities.
Historical figures such as Shah Jahan, with his symbolic meeting with Khizr in Ajmer in 1654, and the architectural contributions of Akhund Mulla Shah Masjid in Srinagar (1649) and Mian Mir (1558), demonstrated how the Mughal rulers embraced Sufi traditions.
The webinar suggested further reading, including Syed Athar Abbas Rizvi’s A History of Sufism in India and Muzaffar Alam’s The Mughals and the Sufis: Islam and the Political Imagination in India, 1500-1750, to deepen the understanding of Sufism’s impact on Mughal culture.
Prominent Mughal figures like Dara Shikoh and Jahanara Begum played a crucial role in supporting Sufi thought. Dara Shikoh’s Majma-ul-Bahrain sought to reconcile Islamic and Hindu mystical experiences, while Jahanara Begum’s patronage of Sufism fostered an environment of spiritual harmony.
The enduring influence of Sufism on contemporary spiritual and cultural life was discussed. The Q&A session allowed participants to explore specific topics. The webinar provided valuable insights into the interplay of spirituality, art and culture during the Mughal period.
Christina Ben is a Doctoral Student, Maharaja College, Ernakulam.