From Sufi Dargah to Public Space – Living History and Cultural Place at the Shrine of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai in the Town of Bhitshah, Sindh (Pakistan)

Abstract

The Shrine of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai (1689 -1752), a popular Sufi saint is a site of religious importance as well as a cultural heritage for the people of Sindh. Most importantly, it is representative of the collective memory of a social group, passed on through familial ties. Dating back to 1754, the shrine marking the center of the town, fulfills multiple functions today and has multiple groups/ institutions taking ownership of it. Despite the evolution, the case is a unique example of a surviving living heritage. The following paper outlines the functional evolution of the shrine, highlighting the factors responsible for its persistence and harmonious blend with later additional uses adding richness to its experience.