When Faith Rode on a Vijay Super — LambrettaMemories of Gyarhvi Sharif

✒️:. Syed Majid Gilani

Some memories are not merely remembered — they are relived.
They breathe through the fragrance of faith, the rhythm of prayers, and the echoes of childhood moments that never fade.

For me, the 11th day of every Islamic month — Gyarhvi Sharif — has always carried that sacred fragrance of remembrance and devotion.

On this blessed day, hearts across the world unite in reverence for Hazrat Ghousul Azam Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir Gilani (R.A.), the luminous founder of the Qadriyah order.
Gyarhvi Sharif is not merely a ritual — it is a spiritual homecoming, a moment of collective remembrance and inner awakening.

In Kashmir, the central gathering takes place at the revered Dastgeer Sahib Shrine in Khanyar, Srinagar.
Devotees assemble out of pure love and affection for Ghousul Azam (R.A.), reciting Darood and Azkaar, remembering our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and reverently reciting Qur’an Sharif, Khatm Sharif, Kibrat Sharif, Qaseedah Sharif, and Aurad Sharif in soothing, audible voices.

These sacred gatherings bring us closer to the Auliya Kiraam (R.A.), Ahlul Bayt (A.S.), our pride Khatimul Mursaleen (PBUH), and ultimately, to the oneness of Almighty Allah.
Across the globe, Gyarhvi Sharif continues to be observed as a timeless symbol of unity, faith, and spiritual devotion.

I vividly remember my childhood days when my Jannat Makeen father, Syed Iftikhar Gilani, would take me on his Vijay Super — Lambretta to attend these sacred gatherings.
I would stand in front of him, behind the handle, as we rode through the cool Srinagar air towards the Dastgeer Sahib Shrine.

Standing there, holding the handle tightly, I would often munch on nadir munji — the popular local snack — yet keep both my ears and heart fixed on my papa’s every word and expression.
After offering our respects there, he would take me to the nearby Naqshband Sahib Shrine at Khwaja Bazar, and finally to the revered Khanqah of Shah-e-Hamdan (R.A.).

Those moments are etched deep in my soul — the gentle hum of the Lambretta mingling with the soft echo of Darood Sharif floating through the old streets of Srinagar.
My father — may Allah bless his pious soul — would softly say:

“We have to strive in life to love and abide by the Qur’an, the Sunnah, and the teachings of Ahlul Bayt (A.S.), and walk on the path shown by them.”

Today, as I look back, I realize that his words were not merely advice — they were a lifelong direction, quietly shaping my understanding of love and belief.
Through his simplicity, I learned that true devotion lies not in grand displays, but in quiet sincerity and steadfast faith.

The message of Hazrat Ghousul Azam (R.A.) encompasses purification of the self, sincerity in worship, and service to humanity.
Yet, in many places today, the essence of that message is overshadowed by mere outward show.

The true purpose of this sacred day is not merely to celebrate, but to revive the moral and spiritual consciousness that Hazrat Ghousul Azam (R.A.) lived and preached.
Let us, therefore, read and reread the invaluable books — indeed, the timeless treasures — that he bestowed upon the Ummah, such as Ghunyat-ut-Talibin, Futuh-ul-Ghaib, Sirr-ul-Asrar, and others, and strive to embody his message in our daily lives.

His call to Tawheed and obedience to the Prophet (PBUH) was inseparable from a life of humility, compassion, and truth.
Observing Gyarhvi Sharif without embodying these virtues would be like lighting a lamp but forgetting its flame.

This sacred occasion reminds us that the Ummah is one — a single body of believers transcending divisions of sect, culture, and geography.
The life of Hazrat Ghousul Azam (R.A.) stands as a beacon of spiritual leadership, moral integrity, and unconditional devotion.

His example compels us to reform our character, strengthen our bond with Allah, and treat others with love and fairness.
If we truly wish to honor the saints and scholars who dedicated their lives to the cause of Islam, we must internalize their guidance — not just commemorate their anniversaries.

Gyarhvi Sharif should, therefore, serve as a renewal of inner faith and a revival of outer compassion — guiding us to live as responsible, ethical, and God-conscious individuals.

Even today, when I hear the distant sputter of an old scooter echoing through a quiet Srinagar lane, my heart travels back in time.
I see my father again — serene, faithful, his gaze fixed on the path of saints.

And in that fleeting moment, I feel his presence beside me, reminding me that faith — once taught on a Vijay Super — Lambretta — still carries me through every journey of life.

Syed Majid Gilani is a government officer by profession and a storyteller by passion. His writings reflect themes of faith, family, moral values, and spiritual reflection, often inspired by his own life experiences.
He can be reached at syedmajid6676@gmail.com