Waris Shah

Waris Shah Biography

Waris Shah was a Punjabi Sufi poet of Chishti order who lived in the 18^th century. He is best known for his seminal poem Heer Ranjha, a classic folklore of tragic love story of Heer and Ranjha that has been told several times and interpreted in different ways by many authors. Yet it’s Waris version of Heer Ranjha that is most widely accepted and quoted. Waris Shah is known for his outstanding contributions to Punjabi literature. Though he has not been included in the list of saint poets like Khawaja Maood-ud-Din Ganj Shakar and Ali Hajveri, his richness in poetry that touched heart and soul of a common Punjabi makes him a unique author.

Waris lived during the period 1722–1798. He was born in Jandiala Sher Khan, Sheikhupura, Punjab, and spent his last days in Malka Hans, Pakpattan. Waris lost both his parents at a young age. He later became a disciple of an Ustad and it’s widely believed that he received initial education from this Ustad. Later Waris moved to Malka Hans where he spent his entire life adjacent to a historic mosque. Some authors suggest that he had a romantic life and was in love with a girl named Bhag Bhari, who inspired him a lot to write romantic verses. He had a deep knowledge in Sufi and was a consummate artiste.

Many verses of Waris Shah are widely used in Punjab till now and so popular, even after 250 years. 1964 Pakistani film titled Waris Shah and 2006 Punjabi film Waris Shah: Ishq Daa Waaris are based on the life of this legendary sufi poet. Gurdas Mann played the role of Waris in Indian version.

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Updated: January 28, 2016