Hindu Sufis of South Asia

Within the complex religious landscape of modern India the community of Sindh stands out as a powerful example of interfaith relations. This Hindu community moved to India and practiced Sufism following Sindh's inclusion to Pakistan in the 1947 partition. Drawing on a close analysis of literature and poetry interviews with key informants and a reading of historic rituals and architectures Michel Boivin demonstrates that this active religious minority has managed to retain its unique Hindu-Sufi identity amidst the rigidification of official religions in both India and Pakistan. Of particular significance Boivin argues was the creation of sacred spaces called <i>darbars.</i>These shrines include a religious building where the Hindu Sindhis worship Sufi saints chant Sufi poetry and perform Sufi rituals.<br/>In looking at this vibrant community as a trans-religious culture capable of navigating the challenges of the modern nation state this book is an important contribution to understanding the Muslim-Hindu encounter in India.