As a powerful cyclone approaches the coast of Sindh, something extraordinary is happening outside the serene beige walls of Karachi’s beloved shrine dedicated to Baba Ji, the revered patron saint of the city. The crowds of faithful followers are growing rapidly, demonstrating their unwavering belief despite the approaching storm.
Overheard among the bustling crowd, a faithful believer reassures a companion, “Baba Ji guards against all storms… he will come through for us again, don’t you worry. Just believe.” Flower vendors busily attend to the visitors, their fragrant offerings destined to adorn the sacred resting place of Abdullah Shah Ghazi.
These dedicated followers are joined by a steady flow of worshippers who gather at the busy Clifton intersection, surrounded by the sounds of motorbikes and loud bus horns. Even though the weather forecast predicted clouds and rain, the sun shines brightly in the coastal city, occasionally hidden by passing grey clouds.
Shah Nawaz, assigned to the shrine’s cleanliness duty, shares captivating tales of miracles attributed to the Sufi saint. His narratives offer glimpses into the deeply held beliefs cherished by devoted followers and embraced by a significant portion of Sindh’s population, particularly the people of Karachi. Many people in the city strongly believe that Karachi would have been flooded by the powerful waves if it weren’t for Baba Ji.
Abdullah Shah Ghazi, widely known as Baba Ji, is believed to be a direct descendant of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). After his martyrdom at the hands of his enemies in AD 768, he found his eternal resting place at this holy ground. Although there isn’t much historical evidence, the stories about Baba Ji and his incredible deeds shared with striking similarity, no matter who tells them.
Inside the shrine, a story shared that speaks of Baba Ji’s extraordinary powers. In the past, there was a fishing village right here. One day, a group of fishermen found themselves trapped in the clutches of a dangerous cyclone. Desperate for help, they turned to Baba Ji for assistance.
With just a simple water bowl and his miraculous touch, he gained control over the raging storm. Since that day, people have sought Baba Ji’s aid whenever such calamities arise, and he has never let them down. He always protects and saves them from harm.
Haji Asif, the guardian of the saint’s grave, adds his perspective, stating, “Martyrs never truly die; they are immortal. It’s as simple as that. Baba Ji ensures the city remains unharmed. The sea itself fears him.”
The respect for Baba Ji extends beyond the common folk. Even in the National Assembly, Shazia Marri declared with unwavering faith, “We trust that Abdullah Shah Ghazi will safeguard us.”
These stories may sound hard to believe, but it’s interesting to see how they have become an integral part of the local beliefs. In recent times, there have been about 12 or 13 storms like the one called Biparjoy that have threatened Karachi. However, out of all these occasions, only two cyclones have caused significant damage to the city.
Cyclones such as Teuktae, Nilofer, and Phet, among others, have mysteriously changed their course at the last moment, sparing the city from the devastating impact typically associated with such tropical phenomena. However, this does not imply immunity to natural disasters.
Dr. Asif Inam, the Bahria School of Maritime and Applied Sciences principal, explains that cyclones drawn towards low-pressure areas, typically formed over land with high temperatures. In the cases above, the weather systems altered their paths as they encountered higher land temperatures on the Indian or Omani side.
Dr. Inam reflects, “If the land temperature of this city were to surpass that of India and Oman, it could certainly fall victim to such a calamity.” He recalls an incident from November 2019 when Cyclone Kyarr struck the coast of Balochistan, approximately 350 km from Karachi. Even then, low-lying coastal areas inundated with seawater.
Contrary to popular belief, Karachi has been partially immune to cyclones. In December 1965, an exceptional storm named ‘013A’ struck the city, claiming the lives of over 10,000 people. Experts deemed it rare, as cyclones rarely form in December.
In light of the impending cyclone threat, they announced that the shrine would remain closed to visitors on Thursday and Friday. However, for the faithful, the ability to physically visit Baba Ji matters not; their unwavering faith in his protective powers against natural calamities remains steadfast. As the mysterious allure of Baba Ji’s shrine persists, Karachi continues to inspired by his legendary exploits, finding solace and hope in his divine presence.
