Introduction — The Saint of Sugar
Hazrat Baba Fariduddin Masud Ganj-e-Shakar (RA), affectionately known as Baba Farid, stands as one of the greatest pillars of the Chishti order in South Asia. Born in 1173 CE (569 AH) in Khotwal near Multan (Punjab region), he became the most celebrated successor of Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki (RA) and one of the foremost spiritual inheritors of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (RA).
His title “Ganj-e-Shakar”, meaning “Treasure of Sugar”, was bestowed upon him due to the miraculous sweetness associated with his prayers and character. Tradition holds that the stones he placed in his mouth during childhood fasting turned into sugar by divine grace, symbolising the spiritual sweetness he would spread to humanity.
Early Life and Spiritual Formation
Baba Farid’s early life was marked by austerity and spiritual sensitivity. His mother was a pious woman who instilled in him a love for fasting and prayer from a young age. She would place a small stone under his tongue at suhoor, telling him it was food — and Allah miraculously turned it into sweetness, inspiring his lifelong devotion.
After his foundational studies in Multan, he sought higher learning and spiritual guidance. His travels took him to Delhi, where he became the devoted disciple of Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki (RA), who himself was the spiritual successor of Khwaja Gharib Nawaz. Under Qutbuddin, Baba Farid absorbed the Chishti ethos of love, humility, and service.
Khanqah in Ajodhan (Pakpattan)
Baba Farid later settled in Ajodhan (now Pakpattan, Pakistan), which became the centre of his khanqah. Here, he embodied the Chishti tradition in full:
- Langar (free kitchen): He fed thousands daily, regardless of creed, background, or class.
- Spiritual training: His khanqah became a hub for seekers who underwent rigorous discipline, including fasting, night vigils, and service.
- Accessibility: He welcomed the poor, widows, orphans, and travellers — never turning away anyone in need.
The people of Ajodhan began to call him “Ganj-e-Shakar”, for his words and presence brought spiritual sweetness and relief.
Teachings and Sayings
Baba Farid’s teachings were simple, direct, and filled with compassion. Some of his famous sayings include:
- “The heart of a believer is the House of Allah; do not break it.”
- “The hungry stomach of the poor is the treasury of God.”
- “Do not speak unless your words are sweeter than silence.”
His emphasis on simplicity, honesty, and love of humanity reflected the spirit of Islam in its purest form.
Contribution to Punjabi Language and Culture
Baba Farid is regarded as the first major poet of Punjabi. His dohas (couplets) are preserved in the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred scripture of the Sikhs, making him a unique spiritual figure revered across religious boundaries. His verses express humility, devotion, and awareness of death, leaving an indelible impact on Punjabi culture and spirituality.
Spread of Noor Through Baba Farid
While Khwaja Gharib Nawaz laid the foundation of Chishti Islam in India, Baba Farid expanded its reach into Punjab and beyond. His khanqah at Ajodhan became a centre from which countless disciples spread across South Asia. His method of spreading Islam was not through debate or power, but through love, service, and poetry that touched the hearts of common people.
Among his most famous disciples was Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya (RA) of Delhi, who would later carry the Chishti message to new heights, making Delhi itself a centre of Sufi life.
Final Days and Legacy
Baba Farid passed away in 1266 CE (665 AH) in Pakpattan, where his shrine remains a place of pilgrimage to this day. His Urs is commemorated annually and attracts devotees from across South Asia and beyond.
His legacy is vast:
- Spiritually: He deepened the Chishti tradition of renunciation, service, and compassion.
- Culturally: He gave Punjabi literature its earliest mystical voice.
- Socially: He became a bridge between communities, inspiring Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs alike.
Why Baba Farid Matters Today
In an age of division, Baba Farid’s life reminds the world that true religion is kindness to others, truth in speech, and purity in intention. His poetry continues to inspire seekers of every background, and his shrine in Pakpattan remains a symbol of unity, humility, and divine sweetness.
Through Baba Farid, the sweetness of Ajmer’s message spread far and wide — proving that Islam rooted in love and service could nourish entire civilizations.