Though some of these writings may not have agreed with the teaching of “official” Islam, it was understandably popular among Muslims in India who believed in a more esoteric and mystical interpretation of their faith. In analyzing the works of Bhatti, Asani came to the conclusion that the poetry emanated from popular Muslim folk traditions, but also was heavily influenced by the local culture. Furthermore, why this literary style would be set around a Hindu wedding, considering the great turmoil between and distancing of Muslims and Hindus.
I struggled with understanding why a Muslim male author would take on the voice of a young woman expressing romantic yearning for a Muhammad. My interest was particularly peeked by the piece by Professor Asani on The Bridegroom Prophet in Medieval Sindhi Poetry.
In the reading topic involving “Boundaries in South Asian Muslim Literatures” I was particularly surprised and enlightened by the different styles and themes of poetry used to venerate or express devotion to the Prophet Muhammad. Throughout this semester, I found I particularly enjoyed the heavy influence of art, music and literature that supplemented the learning of the course.
