The shrine of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai is a testament to the legacy of the progressive Sindhi Sufi poet and a stunning example of architectural excellence. Located in Bhitshah, 50 km from Hyderabad, the mausoleum was constructed in 1752 under the patronage of Ghulam Shah Kalhoro. The skilled architect Eidan from Sukkur was commissioned to design the mausoleum, which showcases a unique blend of architectural style.The mausoleum’s construction is a testament to Shah Sahib’s vision, which he shared during the construction of his great-grandfather Shah Karim Bulri Waro’s mausoleum. Ghulam Shah Kalhoro, former ruler of Sindh, ordered the construction of Shah Latif’s mausoleum based on these principles.
Over the years, the mausoleum has undergone several renovations and expansions. In 1835, Mir Naseer Khan, the last Talpur ruler, ordered the renovation of the mausoleum and commissioned beautiful tile work, including intricate designs on the dome and walls inside the mausoleum. Three domes and doors were also constructed in front of the courtyard, along with a minaret for the muezzin to call the prayer. However, there is no record of any significant construction or renovation work on the mausoleum during the British era.
Allan Saeen, also known as Ali Bakhsh Shah, expanded the premises as the number of visitors increased. Verandahs were constructed in front of the mausoleum and the mosque and marble flooring was laid in the courtyard. The mosque adjacent to the mausoleum was constructed by Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai himself during his lifetime and was later expanded by Allan Saeen. The verandahs of the mausoleum and the mosque feature six pillars made of marble and carved and installed by skilled craftsmen from Makran in Rajastan, India.
In 1957, Gahano Khan Junejo from Mirpur Khas constructed a door on the northern side of the mausoleum and built a 25-foot long and 15-foot wide verandah in front of it. Jam Sabab Ali, brother of former chief minister of Sindh, Jam Sadiq Ali, replaced the old wooden door with a silver-plated door. In 1994, the Government of Sindh declared the shrine of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai a national heritage site. This led to further expansions, including the construction of a spacious courtyard and a rest house on the northern side. It was named Rumi courtyard after Sufi poet, Maulana Rumi.
Today, the mausoleum of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai stands as a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Sindh, attracting devotees and architecture enthusiasts alike