Every pearl in the royal crown...

Agencies - Chennai Online - Chennai,India

Saturday, November 11, 2006

President A. P. J. Abdul Kalam has asked the people to seek inspiration from Sufi thought and help build a nation that is beyond the constraints of boundaries as visualised by poet Amir Khusro.

"Now it is the right time for all of us to think of the nation beyond the boundaries as visualised and demonstrated by great Sufi Saint Amir Khusro," Kalam said here during the 702nd Urs celebration of the Sufi poet Amir Khusro.

Khusro, according to popular belief, was a steadfast Sufi and the favourite disciple of the 12th century Saint Nizamuddin Aulia.

Extending his greetings to the devotees, Kalam said Khusro played an important role in bringing together various communities and religions of India and also created an interest in the poetry among the masses. "His concern for the poor farmers inspired me most," Kalam said, quoting Khusro:

"Every pearl in the royal crown is a crystallised drop of blood fallen from the tearful eyes of the poor peasant."

The Urs or death anniversary of Khusro is observed after 16 days of the Id-ul-fitr, which is also known as Satrahvin Sharif - literally the holy Seventeenth. Thousands of people, both Muslims and non-Muslims throng the twin Dargah (tomb) and offered their prayers during the three-day function which will came to an end today.

Though Khusro is known as great Sufi poet, some contemporary scholars of history and Persian language see him as a Court poet who successfully managed to appease more than seven rulers of Delhi Sultanate with his charming poetry.