Bhittai’s teachings promote love and peace- Political differences are natural, national unity must prevail: Nihal Hashmi

Bhit Shah, Jul 29 (APP):Governor Sindh Nihal Hashmi on Wednesday said that Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (R.A) was not only the greatest poet of Sindh but also a remarkable guide for humanity whose teachings of love, peace, brotherhood and tolerance continue to inspire people across the world.

Talking to the media after offering fateha and laying a floral chadar at the shrine of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai on the occasion of the 283rd annual Urs celebrations, the governor said that nearly four and a half centuries ago, when there was no printing press, camera or modern means of transportation, Shah Latif travelled across Sindh on foot, met people personally and spread the universal message of humanity, love and harmony.

He said that Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai’s message was not confined to Sindh or Pakistan but was relevant to the entire world. His teachings promoted compassion not only for human beings but also for animals, trees and nature. He added that Sindh was the land of Sufis where people believed in peace, love and tolerance.

The governor stressed the need for extensive study of “Shah Jo Risalo” so that the younger generation could better understand the teachings of the great Sufi poet. He also called for translating “Shah Jo Risalo” into different world languages to introduce the international community to Shah Latif’s philosophy of love, humanism and universal brotherhood.

He said the world should know that Sindh was the land of peace-loving and compassionate people. The participation of people belonging to different religions, sects and languages in the Urs celebrations reflected the spirit of religious harmony and tolerance promoted by Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, he added.

Speaking on political affairs, Nihal Hashmi said that political differences were a normal part of democracy, but all political forces should remain united on issues related to national interest. He also expressed hope that work on the Matiari Motorway project would resume soon.

Responding to a question regarding India’s violation of the Indus Waters Treaty, the governor said that no one could deprive the land of Shah Bhittai of its water, describing the River Indus as “our mother” that would continue to flow. He said Pakistan was fully capable of safeguarding its national security and would not allow anyone to conspire against the country’s interests.

The governor said Pakistan had a capable military leadership under Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, adding that the country’s defence was in safe hands.

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Kheal Das Kohistani, Prime Minister’s Youth Program Sindh Coordinator Fahad Shafique, Surath Thebo, district administration officials and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

During the visit, the governor also listened to the poetry of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai at the shrine and distributed clothes among deserving women.