Malik Ibrahim Baya: A Revered Figure in Bihar's History and Sufi Tradition
By Syed Amjad Hussain,
New Age Islam
25 July
2024
Malik
Ibrahim Baya, a distinguished Islamic scholar, warrior, and Sufi saint,
continues to be celebrated for his pivotal role in shaping the cultural and
spiritual landscape of medieval Bihar. He was also contemporary to Sufi saints
Shaikh Sharfuddin Ahmed Yahiya Maneri, Syed Ahmed Jajneri, Muzaffar Shams
Balkhi, Ahmad Charamposh and others.
The
tomb is said to have been built by Syed Daud Malik, the eldest of the seven
sons of the saint, who is also buried inside the tomb. The tomb of Syed Ibrahim
Malik is located in Bihar Sharif, at the hilltop of Budhha Pahari, one mile
west of the town.
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His life,
chronicled in various historical texts including "Reyazul Nayeem" by
Muhammad Nayeem, “Hazrat Syed Ibrahim Was Hazrat Malik Bia” by A. Munim and
"Tareekh-e-Hasan" by Syed Jawad Hussain Gayawi, illuminates his profound
impact and enduring legacy.
Born into a
lineage tracing back to Ghaus-e-Aazam
Abdul Qadir Jilani, as per book “Reyazul Nayeem”, Malik Ibrahim Baya
exemplified courage and leadership from an early age. His notable achievements
include defeating the oppressive Kol Chiefdom and subsequently becoming the
first Muslim governor of Bihar after triumphing over Raja Birthal. These
victories not only secured his place in history but also established him as a
symbol of resistance against injustice and a champion of religious tolerance.
According
to Muhammad Nayeem's "Reyazul
Nayeem," Malik Ibrahim Baya's familial lineage underscores his
prestigious ancestry, connecting him directly to Abdul Qadir Jilani, the
founder of Qadiriyya order. This genealogical heritage likely influenced his
spiritual journey not only within the Suhrawardiyya Sufi order, where he
dedicated himself to the pursuit of divine knowledge and inner enlightenment.
Contrasting
accounts about Malik Ibrahim Baya's personal life are found in different
historical sources. "Shoarfa Ki
Nagari" suggests he did not marry but instead adopted children
throughout his life, emphasizing his compassionate nature and commitment to
nurturing future generations. In contrast, A. Munim's perspective in
"Hazrat Syed Ibrahim Was Malik Bia" describes Malik Ibrahim Baya as
married with a fulfilling family life, raising nine children who would later
contribute significantly to Bihar's social and intellectual fabric.
Tragically,
Malik Ibrahim Baya met his end during a skirmish at Rohtasgarh Fort, where he
was ambushed by soldiers of Raja Hans Kumar, according to historical accounts
detailed in "Tareekh-e-Hasan."
His Wisal on 13 Zill Haj 753 Hijri
(January 20, 1353 CE) marked the conclusion of a life dedicated to principles
of justice, spiritual devotion, and scholarly pursuits.
The legacy
of Malik Ibrahim Baya endures through annual commemorations at Peer Pahadi,
where devotees and descendants gather to honour his memory during Urs. His
descendants, including notable figures like Barrister Muhammad Yunus and Allama
Malik Zafaruddin Bihari, continue to uphold his teachings and contribute to
various fields, perpetuating his influence on Bihar's rich cultural heritage.
In
conclusion, Malik Ibrahim Baya remains a revered figure whose life exemplifies
resilience, compassion, and spiritual enlightenment. His contributions to
Bihar's history and Sufi tradition resonate profoundly, inspiring generations
to embrace his legacy of integrity, justice, and devotion to higher principles.
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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.