The mysteries of Sheikh Ahmad Chogali’s (RA) spiritual journey, which encompass encounters with divine phenomena and rigorous ascetic practices, shape a life devoted to God. Through tales of miraculous encounters and profound teachings, he imparts the power of faith and love.
By Khursheed Dar
Mulla Ahmad, revered as Sheikh Ahmad Chogali (RA), affectionately termed “Sheikh seab,” was not only a Sufi scholar but also esteemed as a saint belonging to the Suhrawardiyya order. Renowned for his profound knowledge encompassing Islamic literature, Hadith, Fiqah, and more, he earned the epithet Mohuddin al Arabi thani. His shrine, nestled in Chogal village, Handwara, serves as a pilgrimage site drawing devotees from diverse faiths. Situated in Handwara Tehsil of Kupwara district, Jammu & Kashmir, Chogal village stands as a testament to his spiritual legacy.
While the precise year of his birth remains shrouded in mystery, historical records indicate his close discipleship under Hazrat Sheikh Hamzah Makhdoom RA. Little is known about his early life and birthplace, perhaps due to his prolonged periods of seclusion within cave retreats under the mentorship of Hazrat Shiekh Hamzah Makhdoom, culminating in his eventual settlement in Chogal village, Kupwara. Oral tradition suggests his origins trace back to Medina, where he purportedly migrated to Kashmir during the infancy of Hazrat Sheikh Hamzah Makhdoom. Historian Peer Ghulam Hassan Khuihami recounts an intriguing episode from Sheikh Ahmad Chogali’s life, where a divine dream featuring a bridge led to his spiritual alliance with Hazrat Sheikh Hamzah Makhdoomi.
Reflecting his teachings centered on love, brotherhood, and simplicity, Hazrat Sheikh Ahmad Chogali advocated a path of compassion and devotion as the ultimate means to draw closer to Allah and His Prophet (peace be upon him). Proficient in Persian and Arabic, he authored numerous influential works, including the renowned masterpiece “Nuskhai Sultaniya,” reflecting his deep spiritual connection with Hazrat Sheikh Hamzah Makhdoomi. Esteemed scholar Professor Abdul Majeed Sayer lauds his erudition across various disciplines, highlighting his multilingual prowess and seminal contributions such as “Bahr-ul-Tanzil.”
Legend has it that Hazrat Sheikh Ahmad Chogali’s spiritual eminence transcended conventional bounds, evidenced by miraculous encounters. One such account, chronicled by Professor Ab. Majeed Sayer, recounts a profound encounter with a “Chakor” bird in the desert, precipitating a spiritual phenomenon where thousands of birds emerged from his breath, ascending towards the heavens.
Hazrat Sheikh Ahmad Chogali’s ascetic lifestyle, marked by extended periods of meditation and voluntary fasting, attested to his unwavering commitment to spiritual enlightenment. From his early years, marked by the memorization of the Qur’an at the tender age of six, to his later pursuits steeped in profound contemplation and scholarly exploration, he exemplified a devotion that continues to inspire generations. Embracing the wisdom encapsulated in works like “Gulshan-e-Raz,” he epitomized a spiritual journey anchored in profound reflection and divine connection.
The esteemed rank and mystical stature of this iconic mystic transcended mere articulation, defying description. Upon departing for the heavenly abode, the funeral prayer for this illustrious Wali Kamil was led by Khawaja Hassan Qari of Zaingair Sopore, underscoring the profound reverence bestowed upon him. Regrettably, an authentic record pinpointing his physical departure remains elusive. Chronicler Hassan recounts the spiritual journey of Hazrat Sheikh Ahmad Chaguli, who devoted six years to meditation atop the hills of Harwon, Sopore, devoid of human contact, forging a bond with the untamed creatures of the wild.
Guided by his mentor, Hazrat Sheikh Hamzah Maqdoomi, Sheikh Ahmad relocated to Chogal Handwara at his behest, where he spent his final days and drew his last breath, ascending to a revered figure among the masses. His teachings illuminated the spiritual paths of multitudes, garnering an extensive following and widespread adulation. Under the tutelage of Hazrat Sheikh Hamzah Makhdoomi, Sheikh Ahmad’s spiritual purification extinguished worldly desires, intensifying his pursuit of proximity to Allah through meditation and penance.
The Sufi tradition venerates spiritual leaders with unwavering devotion and dedication, as illustrated by the companionship of Hazrat Sheikh Hamzah Maqdomi at Chogul Handwara. Sheikh Ahmad’s sojourn to Divnal top marked the genesis of a spiritual enclave, frequented by luminaries such as Hazrat Pir Khan Wali RA, Qalandar Ama Sb RA of Yaroo Langate, and others, who sought spiritual enlightenment through rigorous ascetic practices.
Sheikh Ahmad’s ascension to spiritual eminence was marked by austere living conditions and a profound connection with the divine, sustaining himself on wild grass during meditative retreats. The renovation of his shrine a decade ago, spearheaded by Haji Mohammad Ismael Kirmani, underscores the enduring reverence for his legacy.
The annual Urs of Sheikh Ahmad Chogali, observed in October, attracts devotees from across the valley, who converge at the shrine to recite prayers and extend gestures of charity towards the less fortunate. The egalitarian spirit of the Urs is manifested in the communal sharing of food, uniting beggars, the impoverished, and the affluent in a spirit of camaraderie.
The Shrine of Hazrat Sheikh Ahmad Chogali stands as a testament to his spiritual influence, drawing throngs of devotees year-round to partake in its sanctity and seek solace in his enduring legacy.
The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of this Magazine. The author can be reached at [email protected]
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