Sindh is a land rich with versatility and unique culture, representing a harmonious blend of diverse communities who together reinforce the vitality of this region. It is an epicenter of diverse culture, music, language, and mystical values, imbued with the values of love, care, art, and generosity. This land produces a wealth of art and iconic figures who reflect the diverse landscape and culture of the people of Sindh.

Sindh introduced the world to folk music, melodious tunes, and mystical individuals who spread messages of divinity and unity. Known as the land of poetry, mysticism, and art, Sindh has nurtured numerous spiritual and pious leaders, mystical personalities, and poets. These figures flourished here, promoting peace and expressing love and warmth through their art.

One such iconic figure is Sachal Sarmast, renowned for his vivacious poetry and intriguing personality. Born in 1739 in the village of Darazan near Khairpur, Sindh, Sachal Sarmast was famous for his zestful nature and deep connection with the divine. He challenged prominent thinkers of his time, often expressing dissenting ideas and debating fearlessly. Known as “Sachu” in his poetry, meaning “the righteous person,” Sachal Sarmast’s work is a testament to the power of love and unity with God. Overflowing with reverence for the divine, his poetry has been translated into various languages, yet he maintained mastery over seven languages.

Sachal Sarmast’ s poetry is both a guide and a source of inspiration, urging people to live boldly and embrace the spiritual journey:

شما جو شغف، اُڀري اُڀري نوجوانن جو رَهبر، ڏهرين جو دلي

شما جو شغف، ڳچي ڳچي هوڻي هٿان، هٿيڙي ڪچي

Translation:

Like a candle, burn bright and bold, Illuminating paths, for young and old.

Let your passion fuel the flame, And guide others, through life’s maze and game.

Sachal Sarmast elevated poetry to new heights, and his life was deeply interwoven with Sufi mysticism and profound spirituality. His journey was one of self-annihilation and devotion, capturing the transformative essence of the Sufi path. He saw life as a journey with continual learning, as depicted in his poem

“Safar Ji Vani”:

سفر جو سبق، سِکي سِکي هر گام اڳاڻو، دل جو ڀڃي

نه روڪي رهو، نه مُڪي رهو هر گام اڳاڻو، ڏينهن جو ڀڃو

Translation:

Life’s journey is long, with twists and turns, But every step forward, your spirit learns.

Don’t halt, keep moving, come what may, For each step forward, leads to a brighter day.

Sachal Sarmast’ s life and poetry exemplify the Sufi path of devotion, self-annihilation, and spiritual freedom. His choice to embrace direct experience of the divine over traditional religious structures made him both celebrated and controversial—a poet whose legacy continues to illuminate paths for generations.