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The Risalo of Shah Abdul Latif
Sufi Poetry from Sindh
Series: Murty Classical Library of India
Brief Description
A landmark English translation of Sindhi literature's most famous classic. Shah Abdul Latif's Risalo, loosely translated as "the message," is widely regarded as the pinnacle of Sindhi literature, cherished across South Asia and the diaspora. This collection of Sufi verses, originally crafted for musical performance in...
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See moreThe Risalo is widely regarded as the pinnacle of Sindhi literature, cherished across South Asia and the diaspora. This collection of short Sufi verses, originally crafted for musical performance, weaves a rich tapestry of mystical and divine love, drawing on both Islamic tradition and local Sindhi society.
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Description
A landmark English translation of Sindhi literature's most famous classic.
Shah Abdul Latif's Risalo, loosely translated as "the message," is widely regarded as the pinnacle of Sindhi literature, cherished across South Asia and the diaspora. This collection of Sufi verses, originally crafted for musical performance in the eighteenth century, weaves a rich tapestry of mystical and divine love, drawing on both Islamic tradition and local Sindhi culture. Latif's poetry also immortalises timeless love stories, such as those of Sasui Punhun, Suhini Mehar (Sohni Mahiwal), and Lila Chanesar, which continue to captivate millions.
Latif (1689-1752) is a revered Sufi saint whose shrine is a beloved pilgrimage site in present-day Pakistan. His Risalo reflects a deep commitment to bringing together Islamic as well as Hindu devotional and ascetic traditions, and includes verses celebrating the spirituality of yogis.
This first authoritative translation into modern English introduces a new generation to one of the greatest treasures of Indo-Islamic literature.
Series: Murty Classical Library of India
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Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780674302822
Publisher: Harvard University Press
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 14 October 2025
Country: United States
Imprint: Harvard University Press
Contributors:
- Translated by Christopher Shackle
Audience: Professional and scholarly
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 22.0mm
Width: 133.0mm
Height: 203.0mm
Weight: 299g
Pages: 352
About the Author
Christopher Shackle is a Fellow of the British Academy and Emeritus Professor of the Modern Languages of South Asia at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. His awards include the Sitara-i-Imtiaz, the highest award for the arts in Pakistan.
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