SOCIAL SERVICES OF SUFIS IN PUNJAB: A CASE STUDY OF HAZRAT MOLANA MUHAMMAD ZAKIR (DISTRICT CHINIOT)

Abstract

The influence of Sufis on Pakistani religio-political and social engineering is the subject of this extensive study, which examined the case of Hazrat Molana Muhammad Zakir in District Chiniot. In this analysis, we mainly focused on Muhammadi Sharif's efforts to better the community and meet its needs. With a focus on qualitative research, this study used a mixed-methods strategy to collect data from a variety of sources, including interviews, questionnaires, and archive materials. Max Weber's concept of charismatic authority (Weber, 1922) and Sufi networks and Social Power of disciples and zawiyas (lodges) (Robinson, 2005) are all part of the theoretical framework, which provides a comprehensive view. Content analysis is done in this study to determine if Muhammadi Sharif's programs were successful in improving community healthcare, education, and economic stability. The findings described the historical development of Muhammadi Sharif's infrastructure and provide light on important aspects of the social services it provides. The findings of this research demonstrated that District Chiniot benefited greatly from Muhammadi Sharif, which was headed by Maulana Muhammad Zakir. Social justice, healthcare, education, and economic empowerment. Hazrat Molana Muhammad Zakir's Urs sparked cultural and spiritual dynamics, which are further explored in the research. The religious leaders are clearly more than simply captivating figures; they are crucial in mediating community conflicts, rallying followers for political objectives, and shaping cultural standards. This study adds to what is already known about Muhammadi Sharif's social services by providing a thorough understanding of its theological basis, practical consequences for the socioeconomic growth of District Chiniot, and larger implications for community development.