Stepping into the Hazrat Pir Mohammad Shah Library, the oldest library of the city, feels like entering a secret realm concealed within the narrow lanes of Pankora Naka, Ahmedabad. This hidden sanctuary of wisdom resides within the majestic tomb-shrine complex dedicated to the esteemed Pir Muhammad Shah.
The library’s journey commenced over 250 years ago when Pir Mohammad Shah and his devoted disciples gathered a humble collection of 300 manuscripts. Now, this literary haven proudly safeguards an expansive repertoire of over 4,000 manuscripts, establishing its position as such largest collection in Western India. Moreover, it boasts an impressive assortment of over 25,000 books.
About Mohammad Shah
Let us delve deeper into the enigmatic figure of Mohammad Shah, the driving force behind the library. Born in Bijapur in 1688 AD, he embarked on a transformative journey to Mecca, where he immersed himself in the teachings of practical Sufism.
Eventually, he settled in Ahmedabad in 1711, where he would offer his daily prayers in the Jama Masjid and rest in the humble hut of a benevolent elderly woman. It is in this very location that the awe-inspiring mausoleum-mosque-library complex now stands.
A treasure trove of manuscripts and books
During his lifetime, Pir Muhammad Shah, along with his devoted disciples, amassed a treasure trove of manuscripts and books, encompassing a wealth of academic and spiritual wisdom. This invaluable collection finds its residence in the esteemed “kutubkhana”. The Pir himself was a gifted bilingual poet, penning abundant verses in Persian and Dakhani.
Today, the library stands as a testament to its illustrious past, harboring more than 4,000 manuscripts—the largest collection in Western India, alongside a rich trove of over 25,000 books. Its extensive catalog covers diverse subjects such as spirituality, Quran Knowledge, music, literature, history, geography, language, astronomy, astrology, agriculture, and more.
Within its hallowed halls, one can explore literature in Urdu, Gujarati, Arabi, Parsi, Hindi, and English. The library features a special chamber dedicated to ancient manuscripts, some dating back 800 years, as well as a display of Hazrat Pir Mohammad Shah’s personal belongings, carefully encased in glass to ensure their preservation.
Translations of sacred texts and unique manuscripts
The library’s treasures extend beyond its own collection, offering translations of sacred texts such as the Bible, Rigveda, and Geeta. Visitors are also privileged to behold unique manuscripts, including a handwritten Quran by the illustrious Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
This historic repository not only embodies a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and heritage but also exudes an aura of serenity and tranquility. Explore the mosque, wander through the tranquil courtyard, lose yourself in the pages of ancient tomes, marvel at rare manuscripts, and surrender to the enchantment of bygone era. A captivating journey back in time awaits within these hallowed walls.
