
13/01/2025
AHAD BAB (RA): THE GREAT SUFI SAINT OF NORTH KASHMIR
Ahad Bab, an extraordinary Sufi saint from the picturesque valley of Kashmir, stands as a towering figure in the spiritual and mystical landscape of the region. Born on June 30, 1930, in the serene town of Sopore—popularly known as the Apple Town—Ahad Bab's journey from the simplicity of his origins to spiritual ascension remains an awe-inspiring narrative of devotion, humility, and profound faith. His life, steeped in the divine, continues to inspire generations, not just in Kashmir but also far beyond its borders.
Early Life and Ancestral Roots
Ahad Bab, originally named Abdul Ahad Peer, was born into a family renowned for its piety and devotion to Allah. His father, Peer Mohammad Ahsan, and grandfather, Peer Yahya Sahib, were respected for their spiritual depth and their unwavering commitment to worship and societal service. This lineage of devotion naturally imbued Ahad Bab with a spiritual inclination from an early age.
He grew up in the close-knit community of Mohalla Ashapeer, surrounded by the pristine beauty of Sopore. Despite the challenges of his time, he was known as a gentle, introspective child. Enrolled in the local Zabardasti School, his formal education ended at the third primary level, but his lack of conventional schooling was overshadowed by an innate thirst for spiritual and intellectual growth that would later shape his extraordinary journey.
Family Life and Early Responsibilities
Ahad Bab was married to Hajah Begum, a woman of gentle disposition and deep faith. Together, they had two children: Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Peer, who later served as a Block Veterinary Officer in Sopore, and Shariefa Bano, who passed away tragically at a young age soon after her marriage in 1995. When Hajah Begum passed away in 1979, Ahad Bab had already renounced worldly attachments, including his familial responsibilities. It was his mother-in-law, Saja Begum, who took care of his children with unwavering dedication. This act of love and sacrifice became a testament to the strong bonds that sustained the family despite Ahad Bab’s spiritual calling.
Turning Away from the World
Ahad Bab’s early adulthood marked the beginning of his departure from the material world. At the age of 20, in 1950, he briefly joined the Police Department. However, the confines of worldly duties were incompatible with his burgeoning spiritual awareness. He relinquished his position, perhaps sensing a higher purpose awaiting him.
His withdrawal from the job was a defining moment, signalling his complete submission to the will of Allah. Free from worldly distractions, he devoted his nights to worship, recitation of the Holy Quran, and the study of its Tafsir (interpretation). For the townspeople, this sudden change was perplexing. Many believed he had lost his mental balance, unable to comprehend that Ahad Bab was on a profound spiritual quest.
The Journey of Spiritual Ascension
Ahad Bab's path to spiritual enlightenment was characterized by deep devotion, sincerity, and perseverance. By the age of 27, in 1957, he had fully submitted himself to Allah, dedicating his existence to prayer, meditation, and the pursuit of divine truth. His nights were spent in isolation, praying fervently and seeking closeness to Allah.
His unwavering faith and self-discipline led him to minimize his worldly needs. He developed a profound detachment from material possessions, preferring the simplicity and austerity that aligned with his spiritual aspirations. This marked his journey through the stages of Sufism, a path that demanded renunciation, self-purification, and the cultivation of love for the Divine.
Influence of the Quran and Spiritual Teachings
Ahad Bab’s spiritual evolution was deeply rooted in the teachings of the Holy Quran. He immersed himself in its verses, seeking guidance and enlightenment. A notable incident from 1975 highlights his dedication to understanding the divine message. During a period of Itikaf (spiritual seclusion) at Khaja Gilgit Mosque in Sopore, he sought the explanation of verses 8, 9, and 10 from Surah Al-Muzammil:
"So, remember the name of thy Lord and devote thyself with a complete devotion. Lord of the East and the West; there is no God save Him; So, choose Him alone for thy defender. And bear with patience what they utter, and part from them with a fair leave-taking."
These verses encapsulated Ahad Bab’s spiritual philosophy. They emphasized complete devotion to Allah, patience in adversity, and detachment from worldly entanglements. The depth of these teachings resonated deeply with him, guiding his every action and thought.
Path of Self-Negation and Asceticism
As Ahad Bab progressed on his spiritual journey, he embraced the principles of self-negation (Fana) and spiritual subsistence (Baqa). He willingly subjected himself to physical hardships, viewing them as a means to purify his soul and strengthen his connection with Allah.
Even during the harsh winters of Kashmir, he wore minimal and thin garments, walked barefoot on snow, and spent nights in open spaces without shelter. These acts of self-imposed austerity reflected his unwavering commitment to transcend the physical realm and achieve spiritual elevation. By casting aside, the trappings of the ego and material desires, Ahad Bab exemplified the Sufi ideal of surrendering entirely to the will of Allah.
Service to Humanity and Devotees
Ahad Bab’s spiritual stature attracted countless devotees from all walks of life. His ancestral home in Mohalla Ashapeer became a sanctuary for those seeking solace, blessings, and guidance. Despite his efforts to distance himself from worldly interactions, people thronged to him, convinced of his ability to alleviate their sufferings and provide spiritual remedies.
His interactions with devotees were often unconventional. Known for his immense physical strength, he would sometimes express his irritation by physically striking his followers. Remarkably, those who experienced this claimed that the pain cured their ailments and brought them relief. Such incidents deepened the faith of his followers, who saw these actions as manifestations of divine will.
Ahad Bab’s influence transcended religious boundaries. People from various faiths sought his blessings, a testament to his universal appeal and the inclusivity of his spiritual philosophy. Rich and poor alike recognized his transformative impact, attributing positive changes in their lives to his divine interventions.
The Later Years: A Period of Tranquility
The tumultuous period of the 1990s saw Ahad Bab retreat further into a state of calm and silence. By this time, he had attained the highest levels of spiritual development. His presence exuded an aura of peace and divine connection, and his followers noted the profound sense of tranquility that surrounded him.
During this phase, Ahad Bab spoke little, yet his silence conveyed volumes. It was clear to those around him that he had reached an unparalleled level of communion with Allah. His every action and gesture reflected the deep spiritual truths he had internalized.
Legacy and Eternal Reverence
Ahad Bab left this world on July 26, 2010, at the age of 80, after a brief illness. His departure marked the end of a remarkable earthly journey, but his spiritual legacy continues to inspire and guide countless individuals. His teachings, life, and unwavering faith have cemented his place among the great Sufi saints of Kashmir.
His family, particularly his son Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Peer, continues to uphold his legacy. While Ahad Bab’s life needs no written chronicles to immortalize his greatness, documenting his biography would serve as a valuable tribute to his spiritual journey and the impact he had on society.
A Message for the Generations
Ahad Bab’s life serves as a profound reminder of the power of faith, devotion, and humility. His journey from a simple young man in Sopore to a revered Sufi saint exemplifies the transformative potential of surrendering to the Divine will. His teachings encourage us to look beyond material pursuits and seek the deeper truths of existence.
For those who walk the path of spirituality, Ahad Bab’s life offers invaluable lessons. His emphasis on self-purification, patience, and unwavering devotion to Allah serves as a guiding light for all seekers. In a world increasingly consumed by materialism, his legacy stands as a beacon of hope and a call to reconnect with the eternal truths that define our existence.
As we remember Ahad Bab, let us strive to embody the principles he lived by: love for Allah, service to humanity, and the courage to rise above worldly distractions. His life, though rooted in the valleys of Kashmir, resonates universally, reminding us of the boundless possibilities that unfold when one truly submits to the Divine.
ARTICLE RESEARCHED BY
KHANDAY JEELANI (GJK)
IT BUSINESS ANALYST
CAN BE REACHED AT: [email protected]