Indian Sufism since the Seventeenth Century

This insightful study examines the intersection of politics and poetry in Indian Sufism, particularly focusing on its cultural context and the lives of significant Sufi saints.

Nile Green explores the intricate relationship between politics and poetry within Indian Sufism, focusing on Islamic sainthood in a diverse, cosmopolitan Indian society. This society includes various groups such as migrants, soldiers, litterateurs, and princes, all of whom contribute to the rich tapestry of cultural life. By challenging the notion that Sufism exists in isolation from its cultural context, Indian Sufism since the Seventeenth Century offers a nuanced understanding of how these mystical traditions are interwoven with the broader social fabric.

The book specifically highlights the shrines of four Sufi saints located in the often-overlooked Deccan region, examining their evolving significance under the Mughal Empire, the Nizams of Hyderabad, and later within the Indian nation post-1948. A particular focus is placed on the city of Aurangabad, which serves as a backdrop for exploring the vibrant intellectual and cultural history that has shaped this area as part of the independent state of Hyderabad. Through this lens, the text sheds light on the dynamic interplay between spirituality and socio-political changes.

Employing a blend of historical texts and anthropological fieldwork, Indian Sufism since the Seventeenth Century provides a fresh perspective on the developments of devotional Islam in South Asia over the last three centuries. This comprehensive approach enhances our understanding of Sufism and the pivotal role of Muslim saints in shaping the region's cultural landscape.