(All images copyright 2022 Mirza Ali Usman Baig, text written in this article is the author's Research)
Shaikh Muhammad Ismail, born in the year 995 A.H. (1586 A.D.), held an illustrious lineage as the son of Fethullah, the grandson of Abdullah, and the great-grandson of Sarfaraz Khan. His life took a transformative turn when he became a devoted disciple of Makhdum Abdul Karim, a highly revered Muslim saint hailing from Langar Makhdum, situated along the banks of the Chenab River. Over time, Shaikh Muhammad Ismail's thirst for knowledge led him to accumulate immense wisdom, ultimately leading him to establish his prestigious Madrasa in the Mohalla Telpura, located in the suburbs of Lahore.
This esteemed institution under Shaikh Muhammad Ismail's guidance provided comprehensive education in various fields, including theology, jurisprudence, Hadis (the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), and Tafsir (commentary on the Quran). The Madrasa became a beacon of knowledge, attracting thousands of individuals who eagerly sought to benefit from the teachings of this renowned scholar and moralist. Shaikh Muhammad Ismail's influence spread far and wide, garnering him widespread recognition and respect.
In the year 1095 A.H. (1683 A.D.), during the reign of Aurangzeb, Shaikh Muhammad Ismail passed away after living for a remarkable century. As per his wishes, no dome was erected over his grave, reflecting his humility and simplicity. Aurangzeb, acknowledging the importance of preserving Shaikh Muhammad Ismail's legacy, generously granted a vast tract of land to ensure the continued sustenance of his esteemed institution.
During a visit to Shaikh Muhammad Ismail's grave last year, I came across an intriguing story that adds an air of mystery to the surrounding area. It is said that after his passing, burials began to take place around his grave, eventually transforming the vicinity into a graveyard known as "Wada Mian Dars graveyard." In this graveyard stands a quarter constructed with small Mughal-era bricks. Curiously, this building has been abandoned, and according to my host, a resident of the area, it was known as the "Jina wali Kothari" or the "Residence of Jins." The folklore suggests that the jinns (supernatural beings) were also students of Mian Saheb (a respectful title for Shaikh Muhammad Ismail). Behind this quarter, there is a fortification wall constructed using the same Mughal-era bricks, adding further intrigue to the setting. While the veracity of the story remains uncertain, the abandoned quarters continue to stand, evoking an aura of mystery that dissuades anyone from venturing inside, even during daylight hours.
