(Khanwada-e-Chishtiya-Faridiya-Sabiriya) A Scion of a Royal Family and True Servants of Humanity
The history of the traditional and historical Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol, is a grand saga that truly exemplifies the definition of service to mankind. The Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol has been preaching the meaning of the essence of “Sufism” to the hearts of innumerable people, and the saints of this Gadi have a long history. The ancestral saints of the holy Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol have served humanity and Sufism in India for more than 750 years.
The holy Message of the Prophet (Peace be upon him) was spread by the chief of this order, Ashraful Aulia, Sultanul Hind, Khwaja-e-Khwajgan Hazrat Moinuddin Hasan Chishty Sanjari (Radi Allahu Anhu). The message preaches equality for all and service to mankind. Each year, innumerable followers of diverse communities from all over the world gather at the holy Shrine of Garib Nawaz (Radi Allahu Anhu) to obtain the Spiritual blessings. Hazrat Khwaja-e-Khwajgan Moinuddin Hasan Chishty Sanjari (Radi Allahu Anhu) assigned the responsibility for spreading the message of Sufism and Chishtiya order to his chief disciple, Kutbul Alam, Malikul Mashayakh, Hazrat Khwaja Kutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki (Radi Allahu Anhu). Furthermore, he disseminated the message of Sufism. In order to receive his blessings, followers make a pilgrimage to the holy Shrine situated in Delhi.
Hazrat Khwaja Kutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki (Radi Allahu Anhu) enthroned the successor ship of the Chishtiya order to his beloved disciple, Zohdul Ambiya, Shamsul Arefin, Sultanul Salekin, Shaikhul Islam Hazrat Khwaja Fariduddin Masood Ganjeshakar (Radi Allahu Anhu), bestowing on him the responsibilities of this order. He too earned a name in both the worlds (aalams) and attained Spiritual heights through the blessings of his Pir-o-Murshid Hazrat Khwaja Kutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki (Radi Allahu Anhu) and grand Pir Ashraful Aulia, Sultanul Hind Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishty Sanjari (Radi Allahu Anhu). The holy Shrine of Zohdul Ambiya, Shamsul Arefin, Sultanul Salekin, Shaikhul Islam Hazrat Khwaja Fariduddin Masood Ganjeshakar (Radi Allahu Anhu) is situated in Pak Pattan, where thousands of followers continue to visit with full faith and devotion.
Later, He (Hazrat Khwaja Fariduddin Masood Ganjeshakar Radi Allahu Anhu) shared the spiritual knowledge and assigned the responsibility of the Chishtiya order to two of his beloved and eminent disciples, one of them is Tajul Aulia, Hazrat Khwaja Makhdum Alauddin Ahmed Sabir Kalyari (Radi Allahu Anhu) (Kalyar Shareef), who is his nephew, and also the descendant of Saiyad-us-Sadat Hazrat Khwaja Mohyuddin Abdul Qadir Jilani, Gaus Pak (Radi Allahu Anhu) and another is Sultanul Mashayakh Hazrat Khwaja Nizamuddin Aulia, Mehbub-e-Ilahi (Radi Allahu Anhu). Thus, the order initiated by Tajul Aulia, Hazrat Khwaja Makhdum Alauddin Ahmed Sabir Kalyari (Radi Allahu Anhu) came to be known as “Silsila-e-Chishtiya- Sabiriya” and the order established by Sultanul Mashayakh Hazrat Khwaja Nizamuddin Aulia, Mehbub-e-Ilahi (Radi Allahu Anhu) became known as “Silsila-e-Chishtiya-Nizamiya”.
Furthermore, Zohdul Ambiya Hazrat Khwaja Fariduddin Masud Ganjeshakar Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) also helped Hazrat Khwaja Jamaluddin Hansvi (Radi Allahu Anhu) to obtain spiritual knowledge and also assigned him the duties of the Chishtiya order. The order initiated by him is called “Silsila-e- Chishtiya-Jamaliya”. Thus, these eminent saints gained spiritual knowledge from their Pir-o-Murshid Zohdul Ambiya Hazrat Khwaja Fariduddin Masood Ganjeshakar (Radi Allahu Anhu), for serving the Chishtiya order and humanity. In this way, the Faridi, Nizami and Sabri orders emerged with the grace of Hazrat Khwaja Fariduddin Masood Ganjeshakar (Radi Allahu Anhu).
Later, many eminent saints spread the message of Sufism at various places around the world. Many descendants - saints of this order descended on Kadi (Dist. Mehsana) and the city of Patan in Gujarat for this same sole reason. They lived here itself and offered their services.
Furthermore, the heirs of these holy saints followed their ancestral path by continuing to preach the lessons of Sufism and humanity to the people of Gujarat. After serving at different locations within Gujarat, the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol was established with the special spiritual indication and order of the prophet and the saints of this silsila. This is also currently known as the Khanwada-e-Chishtiya-Faridiya-Sabiriya.
Motamiyan Mangrol, a taluka of the Surat district is named after Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Moinuddin alias Motamiyan Chishty Mangroli I (Radi Allahu Anhu). Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Moinuddin breathed his last in Mumbai. The burial took place at Teli Maholla in front of Sir J.J. Hospital, Mumbai. He had previously promised the people of Mangrol; “I will surely come here again”. According to the dream presented by him to the followers, his holy body was brought to Motamiyan Mangrol. When his “holy grave” (mazaar) was opened, a fragrance emitted into the atmosphere. The people were surprised to see that Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Moinuddin’s pious body was in the same condition as it was at the time of burial. Beads of sweat were witnessed on his forehead and a smile on his face. Thus, on seeing this miracle (karamat), many people were left dumbstruck.
Later, His pious body was brought by water to Bhagva-dandi village, then taken on foot from Bhagva-dandi to Mandroi via Pal, Adajan and Olpad, and finally from Mandroi to Motamiyan Mangrol, via Hathoda and Simodara, where countless followers could see him and his burial was performed again. Most of Majority time of Hazrat Khwaja Motamiyan Chishty I, (Radi Allahu Anhu) was spent in worship (ibaadat) and many of his miracles (karamats) are well known. At the young age of five the teacher asked Him to recite a verse from the Qur’an Shareef. Although at the time he was still in the early stages of being taught Arabic, he began to recite from the chapter and continued through half of the Qur’an Shareef. Having observed this feat, the teacher and others present at the time were astonished, and said; “You have already learned by the order of Almighty from his home, I needn’t teach you anything.”
Once, on the way to Motamiyan Mangrol, he arrived at an over-flowing (splashing) river near Amandera. He enquired about the depth of the river and was told that the level was up to the chest of a person. He asked if there was an alternative way to cross the river. He was told that it was only possible if a person could walk on water. Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Motamiyan Chishty I took the name of Almighty Allah, placed his foot on the water and began walking across the river as if he were on land. The people were astounded by what they saw and followed him until he stopped at Motamiyan Mangrol. They drew to the conclusion that this person could only be a saint (aulia) and later learned the fact that he is in fact the saint of the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol. His miracle (karamat) of offering Namaz by placing a white sheet over the well situated in Motamiyan Mangrol is also well known.
As the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol is the only Gadi, there are about 30 “Holy Graves” of the saints of this family. These include the Shrines of Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Moinuddin alias Motamiyan Chishty I (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Dadamiya Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Badashah Sahib Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Kayamuddin Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu), the father of Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Masum Fariduddin Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu), Saiyeda Bibi Apajima (Radi Allahu Anha), Saiyeda BibiAmma Motanbibi (Radi Allahu Anha) amongst other eminent saints. The small grave of a Parrot is also situated at Motamiyan Mangrol, accompanying the saints made him so special that even the parrot could recite the entire Quran Sharif.
Every year, an ‘Urs’ is held for 15 days, commencing from the 1st Posh Sud at the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol. Many programmes such as the Sandal Ceremony, Shijra Khwani, Chiragi, Qawwali (mehfil-e-sama) Langer and Bhajans are organised and countless followers participate. Each year, the pious Urs of Motamiyan Mangrol is celebrated in the presence of the current successor-sajjadanashin His Holiness Khwaja Salimuddin Fariduddin Chishty. Followers of different communities from across the country and overseas attend the annual Urs and provide a unique example of communal harmony.
The holy graves (mazaars) of Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Badruddin Zahidshah Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Zahidshah Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Motamiyan Saani Chishty II (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Balapir Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) amongst other saints are situated at Kadi. This is due to the fact that saints of the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol first arrived at the Kadi and Patan cities of Gujarat.
Even to date, the Urs of Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Zahidshah Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) and Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Badruddin Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) is held on Fagun Sud 14-15 (according to the gujarati calendar). The Sandal Ceremony, which is a part of this Urs, is carried out by the hand of the present successor -sajjadanashin of the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol. The Urs also includes programmes like Shijra khwani, Qawwali (mehfil-e-sama) Langer and Bhajans.
Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Badruddin Zahidshah Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) had vast knowledge of ‘Suluk’ and ‘Vedanta’. He attained many spiritual heights and shared a dual relationship of father and spiritual teacher (pir-o-murshid) with Hazrat Kayamuddin Badruddin Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) of Ekalbara.
At the time of the birth of Hazrat Khwaja Kayamuddin Chishty (Radi Allah Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Badruddin Zahidshah Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) was engrossed in prayer (ibaadat). Therefore, after 40 days, the maid passed on the news of the birth of his son. By his order, the maid brought the child to him and he began soaking the child in a reservoir which was located just beside where he was seated. He submerged Hazrat Khwaja Kayamuddin Chishty into the reservoir six times. On seeing this, the people around him became concerned but He replied, “Go, Six Stages (tabaks) have been enlightened in six soakings. The Seventh one will be gained by him with his own efforts.”
A remarkable miracle where Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Kayamuddin Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) brought to life a stone effigy (statue) of an ox in the presence of a large gathering is very well known. This phenomenon occurred in a temple near Prakasha (Maharashtra). The Shrine (mazaar) of Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Kayamuddin Badruddin Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) is situated at Ekalbara (Dt- Vadodara). An annual Urs is also held here. The Shrine (mazaar) of Hazrat Khwaja Inayat Miya Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) is also situated at Ekalbara.
Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Kayamuddin Badruddin Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) has written two books “Noor-e-Roshan” and “Dil-e-Roshan”. These books contain invaluable spiritual knowledge. They provide an insight into the greatness of Hazrat Khwaja Badruddin Zahidshah Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) and his disciple Hazrat Khwaja Kayamuddin Badruddin Chishty’s (Radi Allahu Anhu) Sainthood. He has also written many poems, amongst which “Birehni Katha” is a famous collection.
The shrine of Hazrat Khwaja Lalpir Soharwardi (Radi Allahu Anhu) is situated in the Viramgam district of Ahmedabad. He is a descendent of Hazrat Khwaja Bahauddin Soharwardi (Radi Allahu Anhu) and has relationship with the saints of the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol.
Various shrines of different saints connected to the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol are situated in all corners of Gujarat. However, in accordance with the spiritual indication of prophet, permission, guidance and ‘basaarat’ (dream) of the ancestral saints of the order, Gadi was established at Motamiyan Mangrol, from then onwards only Motamiyan Mangrol is considered as a Gadi. This has become the central point to spread the message of Sufism and service to mankind. This pious tradition of serving humanity was introduced around 750 years ago by the ancestors. Thus, the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol- Khanwada-e-Chishtiya-Faridiya-Sabiriya emerged as the heart of this order.
In order to spread the message of Sufism, the successor of the Gadi is enthroned, assigned tabarrukat (pious belongings) and responsibilities of the order in line with the tradition. Moreover, the successor to the Gadi is granted the right to accept followers into the order. The successor of the Chief Gadi follows the principles of Sufism and the footsteps of the ancestral saints in order to spread the message of Sufism in the society. It is noteworthy that this service is accomplished whilst refraining from all acts of discrimination, campaigning and politics. Unity, communal harmony and spiritual progress are the prime goals of this selfless service.
The taluka of Mangrol was renamed by the government and administrators as Motamiyan Mangrol after the original name of Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Motamiyan Chishty I (Radi Allahu Anhu), the selfless social welfare services, the preaching of rearing cows in every household and the principles of unity of the saints of this order undertaken by him inspired this nomenclature. Even today, the name Motamiyan Mangrol is used at railway stations, bus stations, offices and various other official places. Here, in Motamiyan Mangrol, the pious shrines of many saints are situated within a large compound. The renovation of all the shrines has been achieved under the guidance of the present successor to the Gadi. The well situated near the tomb also has its own spiritual and historical importance.
The Urs of two days is held at all the shrines connected to the chief Gadi. However, the Urs at the chief Gadi itself is celebrated for 15 days. Previously, this Urs was celebrated for a month. This was then shortened to 15 days soon after taking the responsibility of the Gadi by the son of His Holiness Khwaja Saiyed Matauddin alias Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu) and the father and Pir-o-Murshid of the present successor, Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Fariduddin Motamiyan Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu).
The successor of the spiritual generation and the eminent Saint of the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol, Sultanul Mashayakh (chief of saints), Sirajus Salekin (Torch of the traders of the true path), Pir-e-Roshan Zamir (Pir of Illuminated Soul), Shams-ul-Aarefin (Sun of the truth knowers), Zubdatul Arefin, Takdduse Ma’ab, Mahatma, Acharya, Raj Vallabh, Raj Priya, Aftab-e-Gujarat Saiyedena va Maulana His Holiness Hazrat Khwaja Matauddin alias Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu) has spread the message of Sufism in a unique manner. Through his service in India and abroad, He earned fame for the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol and the ancestral saints.
His Holiness Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Matauddin Alias Motamiyan Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) abdicated the throne as Dy. Diwan and accepted the ‘faqiri’ by following the footsteps of the ancestors. On the divine occasion of taking responsibility of the Gadi, He gave a historical speech on tasawwuf and spiritual knowledge in the presence of a huge gathering that included followers (murids), well-wishers and other guests. The speech was published by around 100 daily and weekly newspapers, magazines and was also appreciated by the audience.
He was well acquainted with the languages like, Gujarati, Hindi, English, Persian, Arabic, Urdu and Sanskrit. He was also a well-known author. In order to serve the society and humanity His Holiness has written many books in different languages. This series of books includes Rasool-e-Arabi, Tarkibe Talim-e-Tauhid (also known as Mashayakho Nu Mandaan), Hindu Ane Muslim Ek Sharir Ni Be Ankh, The Beauties of Islam, Tragedy of Karbala, Ruhani Ilm Ni Taaqat and other books on the life of Hazrat Khwaja Garib Nawaz (Radi Allahu Anhu). He also wrote further 20 books.
In addition to these achievements, Shrimant Sayajirao Gaekwad appointed him as the chair-person of the Indian branch of Vishwa Dharam Parishad (assembly of the world’s religions), presided by Maharaja Prithviraj. He was assigned this position by unanimous decision and public opinion, where he worked for unity and played a key role in this organization. Moreover, he was awarded a certificate and two gold medals at a conference presided by Mr. Madanmohan Malaviya in recognition of his service and the practice of cow-rearing on 22nd August,1920 at Madhavbaug, Mumbai. However, he returned both medals and requested to use them for the noble cause of public service.
His Holiness was also honoured by the people of Mumbai. They invited him to preside over a huge cosmopolitan meeting held at the Sir Cowasji Jehangir Hall, (Bombay) on 25th June, 1934. This event was to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Hazrat Mohammed (Peace be upon him), under the joint auspices of 42 institutions of Bombay. His Holiness was given a rousing reception on arrival. On this grand occasion, His Holiness delivered a speech in English and impressed the audience remarkably. His Holiness attained the goal of rearing 1 lakh cows. He opined that cow rearing is an integral part of a great agricultural nation such as India and is essential for the overall growth and progress of a democratic country. Shree Sir Sayajirao Gaekwad visited the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol to honour His Holiness Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Matauddin alias Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu) on this occasion.
After the farewell from this mortal world, his burial was performed at the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol. After two years and nine months, His pious body was brought to Palej (Dt-Bharuch) in accordance with the dream presented to his son Hazrat Nizamuddin Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu). Therefore, the shrine of His Holiness is presently situated at Palej.
Thousands of believers found the pious body of His Holiness Khwaja Saiyed Matauddin alias Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu) in the same condition as it was at the time of the initial burial. This incident turned into a spiritual scene and all the believers benefited from it. The group of people who brought his pious body to Palej took rest under a neem tree at Limodra. They were surprised to find that the leaves on a particular bough miraculously turned sweet. In his memory, an annual Urs is held on Chaitra Sud Punam (according to Gujarati calendar) at Palej under the guidance of the present successor -sajjadanashin to the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol.
After Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Matauddin Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu), his eldest son, Khwaja Mahebubul Mashayakh Rajpriya His Holiness Saiyed Nizamuddin Matauddin Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) was enthroned to the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol. He spread the message of sufism and service to mankind in the best possible way. He also had a great command over various languages. His Shrine is situated in Chhota Udaipur, where the annual Urs is celebrated on the 14th and 15th Muharram.
His Holiness Khwaja Saiyed Fariduddin Motamiyan Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu), son of Hazrat Khwaja Matauddin alias Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu), was enthroned as the successor to the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol after Hazrat Khwaja Mahebubul Mashayakh Saiyed Nizamuddin Matauddin Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu). He received higher education from Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) and continued to serve mankind from 1957 to 2001 for 45 years as the successor to the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol. He became an eminent channel for spreading the message of Sufism and service to mankind worldwide. Furthermore, He travelled to various places within India and overseas seeking to guide and provide spiritual knowledge to the followers. He also had a good grasp over various languages, like Gujarati, English, Persian, Urdu and Sanskrit.
About 125 years ago, in 1886, the Saints of the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol presented the natives with the gift of “Group Marriage” (chokhru). The second Group Marriage (chokhru) was organised at Kadi under the leadership of the then successor to Motamiyan Mangrol Gadi, Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu). In December 1956 Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Fariduddin Motamiyan Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) presided over a Group Marriage (chokhru), thereby continuing this valuable tradition of the ancestors. In a true sense, he emerged as an inspirational force to organise such events. He initiated the act of “Manav Dharam”, service to mankind. He also spread the message of communal harmony, brotherhood, rearing cows in every household and the significance of education, especially for girls. He explained the meaning of “Manav Dharam” by helping and guiding the followers across the country to leave addiction of various types. Thus, he became a universal torch bearer for all. He bid farewell to this mortal world on Thursday 13th December 2001 (27th Ramazan). His burial took place at his residence Palej. His Shrine (mazaar) is located just beside that of His Pir-o-Murshid and father, His Holiness Khwaja Matauddin alias Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu). Thousands of followers attended the burial, creating a memorable scene of communal harmony.
Presently, His Holiness Khwaja Saiyed Salimuddin Fariduddin Chishty [the elder son of Hazrat Khwaja Fariduddin Motamiyan Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu)] is serving as the only official successor-sajjadanashin to this Gadi. His polite nature and kind-heartedness have won the hearts of thousands of believers. He remains present during the annual fifteen days Urs at Motamiyan Mangrol. Furthermore, He serves a huge number of people through his selfless service at Palej. He also addresses a huge gathering of followers during the annual Urs of Hazrat Khwaja Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu) and Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Fariduddin Motamiyan Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu). This is held under the guidance of present sajjadanashin His Holiness Khwaja Saiyed Salimuddin Fariduddin Chishty.
The tradition of Group Marriage (chokhru) has been continued by His Holiness Khwaja Salimuddin Fariduddin Chishty. A Group Marriage (chokhru) was organised at Kalol (near Kadi) on 22nd January 2012. The present successor to Motamiyan Mangrol Gadi presided over the event. In his speech, He talked about the economic, social, psychological and moral values and their relationship with Group Marriage (chokhru). The Vice-Chancellor of North Gujarat University, Dr. Daudbhai Ghanchi, and other dignitaries of the programme also appreciated the service of the Gadi and declared Group Marriage (chokhru) as a valuable gift to the society.
The younger brother of the present successor, Hazrat Saiyed Moinuddin Fariduddin Chishty, is also involved in helping to serve the society. He has two sons Hazrat Sirazuddin and Hazrat Fariduddin, following the footsteps of the ancestors, currently they are actively involved in education. Besides this, Hazrat Dr. Matauddin Salimuddin Chishty alias Motamiyan -IV, is a son and successor of the Present Sajjadanashin His Holiness Khwaja Salimuddin Fariduddin Chishty. His Holiness Khwaja Saiyed Fariduddin Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) acquainted his grandson, Hazrat Dr. Matauddin Salimuddin Chishty, as the Motamiyan IV. He was very much dear to his grandfather, Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Fariduddin Motamiyan Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu). Therefore, his name was also chosen by his grandfather. From childhood, He gained knowledge of Sufism and Chishtiya order from his grandfather and father cum Pir-o-Murshid.
At the very young age of 16 years, he delivered an hour-long speech in the presence of a huge gathering. Thousands of followers could not believe their eyes and ears upon seeing a teenage boy giving such an inspirational and spiritual speech. He was granted permission from his grand Pir-o-Murshid and Pir-o-Murshid at the very young age to gain the knowledge of the order. Through this, he initiated the spread of this noble ancestral work.
His grandfather would always say; “I have a tri-relationship with Hazrat Pir Matauddin Salimuddin Chishty as he is my grandson, my disciple and my private secretary.” Hazrat Dr. Matauddin Salimuddin Chishty made the ancestors feel proud by attaining religious knowledge and higher education at a very young age. He has completed M.B.A. after graduating in Psychology. He has also completed Masters in Philosophy of Religion by studying multi-religion and philosophy. Apart from the same he has also been awarded Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy). He has authored books on sufism. ‘Sufi Sandesh and Astitva no Ark’ are recently published. He is very soft spoken, kind-hearted and also has knowledge of various languages.
A Compliment to the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol
Census Report pays a glowing tribute to the His Holiness Khwaja Motamiyan Chishty Saheb III for his salubrious teachings.
Mr. Satya V. Mukherjee B.A, (Oxon) F.S.S. (London) census commissioner Baroda State, in his Baroda State census Report for the year 1931, records on page 384 the following remarkable note for His Holiness Hazrat Khwaja Motamiyan Chishty Saheb of Motamiyan Mangrol. “385 on the other hand there was amongst the pirs, one Khanqah of Islam, who achieved some notable success in the decade amongst his Hindu following by which he helped to swell the numbers of the Hindu section of pir-worshippers. In south Gujarat the success of Maulana Hazrat Khwaza Pir Motamiyan Chishty of Motamiyan Mangrol is noteworthy. He belongs to the famous Chishtiya order of Sufism. Baba’s descendants came over the Gujarat about 750 years ago and established a religious seat at Motamiyan Mangrol (Navsari Prant). The present occupant successor of Gadi Pir Motamiyan Sahib III succeeded his inheritance in 1915. Educated in modern living, he worked with credit in Baroda and Sachin States, before he became the head of his order. The remarkable features of his teaching in his behaviour to keep alive a real entente between Hindus and Muslims by insisting on high reverence for the cow working on the basis of the underlying harmony between Islamic and Vedanta philosophies and allowing full liberty to his Hindu followers to retain their Hindu name and continue their old social relations. His non-insistence on a formal conversion in a large measure explains the increase in number of Hindu Satpanthis. The Pir Saheb is credited with about hundred thousand followers in Surat and Khandesh districts and Navsari prant. It is remarkable that his success has been achieved in spite of frown of Muslim Orthodoxy”. (Census Report Baroda State1931, page 384/385)
His services are of great merit and recognition which led him to be a prominent figure and dearly loved by all. His Highness the Maharaja Gaekwad of Baroda a premier Prince in India took great interest in him and had given him many privileges in the state. Exemption from courts, exemption from the Arms Act (covering the whole of British India) and accommodation of the state guest are the principal privileges amongst others of no small value. In addition to the above, His Holiness is also entitled to a high privilege of private Entire into viceroys leave, which he was given for his position in 1930 in Lord Irvin’s time on the recommendation of the Bombay Government.
The above extract relates to His Holiness Khwaja Saiyed Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu). It comments on the privileges awarded by the British Government and Gaekwadi state to His Holiness. His services are mentioned at length here. By taking into consideration his services, The British government and Gaekwadi state bestowed special privileges to him, including exemption from the arms act, national licence of mobilising such arms, exemption from courts, the facility to travel and lodge while on tour, lodging in government guest houses, be treated as a royal guest, travel first class by rail, free pass to travel with followers, and permission to arrange private meetings etc. He has got a palanquin Chhatrimashal and all the paraphernalia of state pomp, and the right to use them. However, His Holiness was so fond of simplicity that he did not feel inclined to use any of the privileges afforded to him. Through the publication of various books, the message about equality of religions and noble services rendered by the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol has been mentioned by many well-known institutions, such as the British Government, Gujarat Vidyapith, Cambridge University Press and various other libraries and museums. For example, a detailed note on the life sketch of His Holiness Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu) is held at the British Library in London (U.K.).
. . .Further, The Ruling Chiefs, Nobles and Zamindars of India, a book about the lives of eminent Indian personalities, was published by the government. Indeed, pages 551/552 include a life sketch of His Holiness Hazrat Khwaja Matauddin Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu) and details Motamiyan Mangrol . . . The annual Urs of Motamiyan Mangrol is mentioned on page 50 of Gujaratni Lok Kala ane Sanskruti, written by Shree Joravarshinh Jadav and published by the Information Directorate Gov. of Gujarat, Dr. Jivraj Maheta Bhavan, Gandhinagar in May 1991 . . .The details of the Holy Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol are also included on page 414 of Gujarat Ek Darshan by J. Shivaprasad B. Rajgaur (M.A. M.Ed. D.E.C.), the Education Inspector of Leads Surendranagar. This book was published in 1969 by Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda.
. . . The service and teachings of the saints of the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol have also been described by Dr. Makrand Mehta Saheb, a distinguished author of Gujarat, on page 46 to 50 of Gujarat Na Ghadvaiya.
. . .The present Governor of Gujarat, honourable Dr. Kamalaben Benival, has appreciated the social work of His Holiness Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu) whilst commenting on the words of honour spoken by Mr. Madanmohan Malviya Saheb for His Holiness at the Madhavbag Conference.
. . .Shree Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, has also appreciated the services rendered by His Holiness Hazrat Khwaja Motamiyan Chishty Saheb III. In addition to the above, well-known writers and religious heads, such as Makrand Mehta, Gunvant Shah, Shree Morari Bapu, Mehbubbhai Desai, Shree Dhwarkeshlalji Goswami ji, Jay Vasavada, Dr.Daxesh Thakar, Dr Raeesh Maniar etc have also appreciated the services of the Motamiyan Mangrol Gadi and the practice of cow rearing.
. . .On 26th March 1932 at 13 Kartzan Road, New Delhi, Krishnamachari commented on the attempts carried out by Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu) for brotherhood and unity.
. . .The famous spiritual mentor Aga khan appreciated the social service of His Holiness Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu). In addition, a book was published in 1924 which includes detailed notes on all of the saints of the Chishtiya order.
. . .A note on Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol and the history of these saints is included in the Government Gazetteer of Vadodara by the Chief Justice.
. . .Moreover, Mr. Hargovandas published Great Saints of the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol in November 1928. This book is a collection of various miracles (karamat) and the reports on the saints of the said Gadi
. . .A reference to the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol was included in the magazine Agnapalika of Akhbar-e-Islam on 31st March 1921, and in the special edition of Hirak Mahotsav of Gujarat Darpan Chitra . . .Mr. Erackshaw Sorabji Daroga has written and published a book called “A True Servant of Humanity His Holiness Khwaja Pir Motamiyan Saheb Chishty of Motamiyan Mangrol”
. . . Mr. Hafiz Saiyed Aziz Hasan Bakai Nakshbandi - the successor to Hazrat Baki Billah (Radi Allahu Anhu), the editor of Urdu books and magazines, published Chishtiya Shoa’a (Ray) on Motamiyan Mangrol Gadi in December 1924. In the preface to this book, Hazrat Khwaja Hasan Nizami (Radi Allahu Anhu) refers to his meeting in June 1925 with His Holiness Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu). . . .Hazrat Khwaja Hasan Nizami (Radi Allahu Anhu) also expressed his feelings about a meeting with His Holiness Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Matauddin, alias Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu) in the Urdu Magazine Din Duniya. The book consists of information about the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol. . . .A number of libraries, renowned Gujarat Vidhyapith, hold a collection of information about the saints of the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol. Thus, the leaders of all major religions have appreciated the service of this Gadi. His Holiness Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Matauddin alias Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu) served humanity by spreading the message of Sufism all over the world. Many other writers have mentioned in various magazines and newspapers the message of Sufism and the service to mankind spread by him and numerous other saints belonging to the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol.
The saints of this true faqiri tradition of the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol have been leading the spiritual Chishtiya order for more than 750 years. This is why the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol occupies the chief importance in Gujarat and people belonging to various religions and heads of different Sufi orders respect the saints and the successor to the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol.
The eminent saints of this Gadi and the ancestral saints of Hazrat Khwaja Saiyed Badruddin Zahidshah Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) are all related to the holy family of many great saints. These channels reach up to the holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammed Mustafa (Peace be upon him). Saints of this order are also connected with Sultan Ibrahim bin Adham, the then ruling King of Balkh – Bukhara and Kabul who renounced his great kingdom and crown for the service of God and humanity. These saints sacrificed their royal lifestyle, preferring to serve society. By the grace (dua) of the ancestral saints of this family and spiritual teachers, various khanqahs (monasteries) have been spreading the message of sufism and service to mankind on a global scale.
The saints of the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol also have a loving relationship with the great Sufi Saint of India, Hazrat Khwaja Salim Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) of Fatehpur Sikri. When His Holiness Khwaja Saiyed Matauddin, alias Motamiyan Chishty III (Radi Allahu Anhu) was enthroned to the Chief Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol, He was given the title of “A Valuable Pearl” due to his selfless service of preaching sufi doctrines for the noble cause of humanity.
The Spiritual Order of Ashraful Aulia, Sultanul Hind, Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu) and that of Kutbul Aqtab, Malikul Mashayakh Hazrat Khwaja Kutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki (Radi Allahu Anhu) has reached to the saints of the holy Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol through the channel of eminent saints.
Even the disciples (murids) of these saints have turned into great sufi saints.
The successors and followers of all the Sufi Orders including Chishty, Qadri, Soharwardi and Naqshbandi also respect the saints and successor to the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol. Eminent saints, such as Tajul Auliya Hazrat Khwaja Alauddin Ali Ahmed Sabir (Radi Allahu Anhu) and Sultanul Mashayakh Hazrat Khwaja Nizamuddin Aulia’s Pir-o-Murshid (spiritual mentor) are also ancestral saints of this order. For this reason, the believers of both the Chishtiya - Sabiriya and Chishtiya - Nizamiya orders respect the saints and successor to the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol.
By the grace of their Pir-o-Murshid, Hazrat Khwaja Alauddin Ali Ahmed Sabir (Radi Allahu Anhu) and Hazrat Khwaja Nizamuddin Aulia Mehbube Ilahi (Radi Allahu Anhu) attained the spiritual knowledge. Thus, they provided a channel for spiritual progress while spreading the message of serving society. The followers of these eminent saints also continued to spread this same message.
As mentioned earlier, the spiritual disciples of this holy order include the great sufi saints of the time. Below is a list of followers who became sufi saints by the grace of their Pir-o-Murshid, Hazrat Khwaja Nasiruddin Chirag-e-Dehli (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Shamsuddin Turk Panipati (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Amir Khushro (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Mir Saiyed Bandanawaz Gesudaraj (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Kamaluddin Allama (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Kalimullahshah Jahanbadi (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Maulana Fakruddin Chishty (Radi Allahu Anhu), Hazrat Khwaja Makhdum Jalaluddin Jahania Jahagast (Radi Allahu Anhu) [ the grandfather of Hazrat Sirajuddin Mohammed Shahalam Bukhari (Radi Allahu Anhu) of Ahmedabad], Hazrat Khwaja Makhdum Jahangir Simnani (Radi Allahu Anhu) and his Pir-o-Murshid Hazrat Khwaja Alaul-Haq Pandavi (Radi Allahu Anhu), the list goes on. Furthermore, Hazrat Khwaja Bandanawaz (Radi Allahu Anhu) served Hazrat Khwaja Nasiruddin Chirag Dehli (Radi Allahu Anhu) for many years and attained numerous spiritual heights.
Understanding the history of the followers-disciples of the ancestral saints of the Gadi of Motamiyan Mangrol helps us to appreciate the greatness, spiritual attainment and simplicity of these great saints.
The sufi saints presented these followers as a medium to spread the message of Sufism in the society. In this manner, they performed their role at their best, which was attributed to the centre of sufism in India, Sultanul Hind, Ashraful Aulia, Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishty Sanjari (Radi Allahu Anhu) by the Prophet Hazrat Muhammed Mustafa (Peace be upon him). The ancestral saints of this Gadi have instilled the values of life and the teachings of Sufism into the hearts of countless people in India and throughout the world. As part of this objective the saints of this holy Gadi assisted the people of Gujarat further by teaching them the key principles of sufism in Gujarati. This in turn gave the people of Gujarat a new sense of direction.