The Legacy of Bibi Kamal: Unveiling the Mystical Heritage of a Sufi Saint

By Syed Amjad Hussain, New Age Islam 23 July 2024 The Honorific ‘Kamal,’ Meaning ‘Miracle,’ Was Bestowed Upon Bibi Kamal Due To Her Extraordinary Spiritual Feats And Miraculous Acts, Or ‘Karamat,’ That Earned Her Widespread Reverence. These Acts, Deeply Embedded In The Lore Surrounding Her Life, Highlight Her Exceptional Spiritual Prowess And The Mystical Power Attributed To Her. -------- In the tranquil town of Kako Sharif, also known as Kamalabad, located in Jehanabad district of Bihar, the legacy of Bibi Kamal also known as Bibi Hadiya continues to captivate the hearts and minds of many. A revered Sufi saint and daughter of the eminent Peer-e-Jagjot Syed Shahabuddin Suhrawardy, Bibi Kamal's life and spiritual contributions have been subjects of increasing interest in the study of Sufism and Islamic mysticism. Tomb of Bibi Kamal ------ Bibi Kamal reached Kako Sharif with her daughter Bibi Daulati and her husband Sulaiman Langar Zameen, also a Sufi saint of Suhrawardiyya order in A. D. 1274. Bibi Kamal, whose name translates to "Miraculous Lady" or "Magician Women," was born into a distinguished family known for its deep spiritual heritage. She was born in 1211 as Bibi Syeda Hadiya bint Syed Shahabuddin. Her father, Peer-e-Jagjot Qazi Syed Shahabuddin Suhrawardy, rests in Kachchi Dargah, Patna, and is celebrated for his significant role in the Suhrawardiyya Sufi order. Her familial connections further extend to Shaikh Sharfuddin Yahiya Maneri, whose mother was Bibi Kamal’s sister, linking her to a lineage of profound spiritual influence. The honorific ‘Kamal,’ meaning ‘Miracle,’ was bestowed upon Bibi Kamal due to her extraordinary spiritual feats and miraculous acts, or ‘Karamat,’ that earned her widespread reverence. These acts, deeply embedded in the lore surrounding her life, highlight her exceptional spiritual prowess and the mystical power attributed to her. Recent scholarly research has shed light on the impact of Bibi Kamal’s life and teachings. Historians and Sufi scholars have been delving into the oral traditions and historical accounts that detail her contributions to the Sufi community. Her shrine in Kako Sharif has become a significant site of pilgrimage, where devotees and researchers alike visit to seek blessings and explore her spiritual legacy. The impact of Bibi Kamal’s teachings is seen in the continued practices and rituals observed at her shrine. Followers believe that her blessings and spiritual interventions continue to influence their lives, offering solace and guidance. Her shrine serves not only as a place of worship but also as a centre for studying Sufi traditions and the mystical practices she espoused. In addition to her spiritual contributions, Bibi Kamal’s legacy is also preserved through the stories of her miracles, which are integral to the oral history of the region. These stories, passed down through generations, illustrate her deep spiritual insight and the transformative effects of her presence on her followers. As interest in Sufi history and mysticism grows, Bibi Kamal’s life and legacy offer a rich field for exploration. Her role as a key figure in the Sufi tradition of Bihar reflects the enduring significance of mystical practices and the continued relevance of her teachings in contemporary spiritual discourse. The research and preservation of Bibi Kamal’s legacy not only honour her contributions but also enhance our understanding of the historical and spiritual fabric of the region. As scholars continue to study her life, Bibi Kamal remains an enduring symbol of spiritual excellence and mystical devotion. She died in 1296 at Kako Sharif, Jehanabad and was laid to rest in the Dargah where Firoz Shah Tughlaq, Sher Shah Suri and Jahan Ara had visited and offered ‘Chadar’ to the sufi saint. Her tomb is located at the Kako Sharif, almost 50 Kilometres from the Capital city Patna on the Jehanabad-Bihar Sharif road. While, her husband is resting at Bankanagar, which is around 2 km distant from Bibi Kamal’s resting place. ------ Syed Amjad Hussain is a Bihar-based Author and research scholar of Sufism. He is affiliated with the Shyama Prasad Institute of Technology and Management, Kolkata. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-personalities/legacy-bibi-kamal-mystical-heritage-sufi-saint/d/132764 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism