Religious Beliefs Nasirabad

The majority of people living in Nasirabad district belongs to the Sunni sect of Islam. The Shia population is very small in number. The census data only include figures on the major religions, but not on sub-categories. Therefore, it is difficult to analyze the exact number of the Shia population. They are, however, less than one-tenth of the overall population. The two major festivals are Eid-Fitr and Eid-Azha. They are the occasions of great jubilation and joy. Other festivals are Eid-Miladuld Nabi, Sab-e-Barat and Muharam. Alms are given to the poor.

 

The Hindu population observes Diwali and Holi. The number of Hindus living in Nasirabad district has reduced since the Independence. In the past, there was a big number of Hindus living in the area, but they have migrated either to Sindh or to India. The Hindus of the area travel to Jacobabad, a city with a huge Hindu population, for religious congregations.

 

The population of Nasirabad district, as observed and interviewed, is less religiously conservative. The main indicators are less attendance in mosques, less routine prayers and less religious knowledge. There is great respect for Pirs (religious bigwigs) and Syeds amongst the Sindhi speaking population.

 

The number of religious or sectarian differences is small. There are fewer cases of sectarian violence than of family or tribal violence. Although, following the Ayodhya incident in India in 1991, when the Babri mosque was desecrated, some Hindus were killed and temples in various cities were damaged. The anti-Hindu riots did not create a serious threat to the Hindu community in Nasirabad.

 

The people believe in visiting the shrines of Sufi and holy men for the fulfilment of cherished desires and salvation. They promise sacrifices, food and money in the name of a saint before or after their desire is fulfilled. Famous shrines in the district are the ones of Syed Hassan Shanshah, Turk Shah, Sakhi Syed Ibrahim Shah (all in Chattar area) and Syed Hazar Shah at Tinda. Annually the Urs of Shanshah and Syed Ibrahim Shah are held. They are enthusiastically celebrated. Followers come from far away places in Sindh.

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