A shrine is a place regarded as holy because of its association with a divinity or a sacred person or relic, typically marked by a building or other construction. Sufi masters and ascetics, known as pirs and faqirs, preached the mystic teachings of Sufism that greatly influenced the common people. According to historians, they wandered around villages and towns and were responsible for many conversions to Islam in South Asia, particularly in what is now Bangladesh.

Bayezid Bostami was a famous Persian Sufi born in Bostam, Iran. Bayezid Bostami mosque and shrine complex is located on a hillock at Nasirabad in Chittagong city. The shrine is name after him, though there is no authentic historical evidence about Bostami’s visit or burial in the area. The shrine area consists of a tomb, surrounded by a brick structure, along with an old mosque and a large pond. Not only a large number of pilgrims, but also a number of local and foreign tourists visit the shrine daily.

A sarcophagus was originally discovered in 1831, and at that time it was enclosed by a wall with protective pillars. At the foot of the hill, there is an ancient three-domed mosque, which is believed to date from the time of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.

According to Hamidullah Khan, a 19th Century historian of Chittagong, Muslim ascetics and wanderers of the time used to come to Chittagong to meditate on hilltops, surrounded by jungles. And they used to build their shelters there. The tomb at Nasirabad was attributed to Bayezid Bostami.

Some people believe Bostami did visit this part of the world during his lifetime, and according to local legend, when the time came for his departure, local followers cordially requested him to stay on in Chittagong. Being overwhelmed by their love and devotion, Bostami pierced his little finger, let a few drops of blood fall to the ground, and permitted his followers to build a shrine there in his name.

Even though the historical background is still a mystery, a visit to the shrine, located among serene natural surroundings, rewards the pilgrim or visitor with a peaceful feeling of holy devotion. n

References: Eternal Chittagong, Shamsul Hossain, 2012; Bangladesher Muslim Samadhi Sthapatya, Ayesha Begum, 2015; East Pakistan District Gazetteer - Chittagang, 1970; Muslim Monuments of Bangladesh, Dr Syed Mahmudul Hasan, Islamic Foundation, 1980.

Photos: Writer.