Introduction
Hazrat Shaikh Sharfuddin Bu-Ali Shah Qalandar (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), born in 606 AH / 1209 CE in Panipat (Haryana, India), is one of the most beloved and extraordinary saints of South Asia. His life reflects a journey from classical scholarship to intense spiritual devotion, eventually becoming an emblem of the Qalandari path — a Sufi tradition marked by deep sacrifice, ecstasy, and complete surrender to the Divine.
Lineage & Early Life
His father, Shaikh Fakhruddin, was a revered scholar and saint who migrated from Iraq to Panipat in 600 AH. His mother, Bibi Hafiza Jamal, was the daughter of the eminent scholar Maulana Syed Nematullah Hamdani. Through his paternal line, Hazrat Bu-Ali Shah traced his ancestry to Imam Abu Hanifa (رحمتہ اللہ علیہ), while his maternal family carried a legacy of learning and piety.
From a young age, Sharfuddin displayed remarkable intelligence. He completed his studies early and taught for nearly two decades near the Qutub Minar in Delhi, earning respect as a leading scholar of his age.
Turning Toward Mysticism
Despite his scholarly stature, Hazrat Bu-Ali Shah’s heart longed for something beyond intellectual mastery. Immersed in meditation one day, he abandoned his books and turned wholly toward the path of spiritual realization.
His devotion was marked by extreme austerities. Chroniclers describe him standing for days in water in deep contemplation, until fish nibbled at his calves. During this state, he heard a Divine voice granting his prayer. He replied with single-minded devotion:
“I seek nothing but You. My life shall be spent in Your love.”
According to tradition, it was in this moment that Hazrat Ali (کرم اللہ وجہہ) himself appeared, imparted hidden knowledge, and drew him out of the waters. From then, Sharfuddin was known as Bu-Ali Shah, a title that immortalized his transformation.
The Qalandar of Panipat
Unlike many saints formally linked to a Sufi master, Hazrat Bu-Ali Shah is often regarded as one who received direct initiation from Hazrat Ali. Some later historians also connect his spiritual ties to Hazrat Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki, Shaikh Shihabuddin Suhrawardi, or even Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, showing the wide recognition of his sanctity.
He made Panipat his permanent home, where he guided seekers, preached Islam with wisdom and compassion, and served the poor. His message deeply touched the Rajput communities around Panipat and influenced members of the Delhi royal court. Countless people embraced Islam under his guidance.
Miracles & Mystical Experiences
Hazrat Bu-Ali Shah’s life is adorned with numerous accounts of karamat (miracles). One famous narration tells of him seen riding a lion, a vision that astonished onlookers. When the message was conveyed to him by a disciple of Hazrat Shamsuddin Turk — “The lion should remain in the jungle” — Bu-Ali Shah immediately dismounted, displaying humility and submission.
Such episodes reveal his elevated state of realization, balanced by absolute obedience to Divine will and respect for fellow saints.
Passing & Resting Place
Hazrat Bu-Ali Shah Qalandar left this world on 17th Ramadan, 724 AH (1324 CE). Although he passed away in Budha Khera, his blessed body was brought to Panipat, where his mausoleum (Roza Sharif) today attracts seekers from all over the world.
Enduring Legacy
The Dargah of Hazrat Bu-Ali Shah Qalandar in Panipat is not just a tomb but a radiant symbol of love, service, and spiritual freedom. For centuries, it has welcomed people of all faiths, echoing the Qalandari message that true devotion transcends boundaries.
His life remains an invitation — to rise above the material, to lose oneself in Divine love, and to illuminate others with compassion.