SOCIO-CULTURAL REFLECTIONS IN SUFI LITERATURE OF BIHAR

ABSTRACT

Sufism was mainly built upon the tentacles of Islam; it is a religion of love and brotherhood, as it stands for unity of mind and soul and works towards realization of self. It is not surprising therefore, that Sufism became a religion of teaming millions and had special appeal to both Muslims as well as the Hindus, in South Asia. Sufism found an amicable geographical and cultural abode throughout the length and breadth of the Indian subcontinent. Sufism and Sufi saints are an existing reality in socio-religious fold and have undoubtedly contributed immensely towards a healthy and amicable social order in India. Though its base was Islam, it followed the practice of humanism and therefore, became the religion of common people, because it appealed to their soul. Even for non-Muslims it presented a life of eternal freedom from the bondages of materialism to that of eternality and bliss. This Paper deals with the social and cultural scenario of Bihar as reflected in the writings of Sufis of Bihar.

Key Words: Socio-Cultural Reflections, Sufism, Bihar, Literature