Devotional Synergy and Expanding Shi'i Space- Times: Preliminary Observations on Changing 'Azādāri Practices in the Bhit Shah Area

Abstract

Bhit Shah is the abode of venerated Sufi mystic Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. During the last few decades, the saint's shrine has also become a center for Shi'i practices of 'azadari - mourning congregations in memory of Imam Husain. This article contributes to the literature on intertwining Sufi and Shi'i practices by examining how saintly and Husaini devotion repertoires converged in the Bhit Shah area and how this convergence contributed to transformations in ritual action and identity over the twentieth century. We explore how local devotees started adopting the remembrance of Imam Husain and Karbala through devotion to Shah Latif, which initially took place without changes in the devotees' religious affiliation. However, with the precolonial Talpurs' influence and interaction with other devotees from Shi'i urban centers of Sindh, many residents began to affirm Twelver Shi'a identification and expand their mourning practices in space and duration.