Samana, a small town nestled in the heart of Punjab, India, holds within its soil a sacred and forgotten past. Known for its spiritual significance, Samana is home to one of the most enigmatic and least-known shrines of the Ahle-Bait-E-Athar in the Indian subcontinent. A remarkable discovery was made when an epitaph inscribed with the words:
“Tomb of Hazrat Imam Mash-had Ali, son of Hazrat Ali Moosa Raza…Built by Ajruddin Khan Mughal…Ramadan 967 Hijri” was unearthed during a clean-up operation. This moment marked the rediscovery of a legacy hidden for centuries.
The shrine and town of Samana represent a unique confluence of Islamic heritage, Mughal architecture, spiritual legends, and communal harmony. Mashadehind.in is a platform dedicated to preserving, documenting, and reviving the historical and spiritual legacy of Samana.
A Town with Untold History
Located on State Highway-10, between Patiala and Patran, Samana has existed as a prominent center of faith, learning, and culture for centuries. The name “Samana” is believed to be derived from a pious woman named Samana, thought to be related to or the wife of Imam Ali Ridha(A.S), further adding to the town’s mystique.
Historical Significance
- Samana is the resting place of Imamzade Syed Mashhad Ali, believed to be a direct descendant of Imam Ridha, the 8th Shia Imam.
- The town once boasted 22 majestic forts, indicating its military and political importance.
- Samana was a flourishing center for Shia Muslim scholars and had a vibrant population until the Partition of India in 1947.
- Historical manuscripts, relics, tombstones, and epigraphs found in the region show a deep-rooted Islamic academic and theological presence.
- The town witnessed three significant migrations of Sadaat (Sayyid) families in the 9th, 11th, and 12th centuries.
- Oral traditions and Sufi lore tie Samana to several spiritual personalities and saints, including Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti.
The Shrine of Panj Peer
Panj Peer Mazar: Legacy of Imam Mashhad Ali
The most spiritually potent site in Samana is the Panj Peer Mazar, widely believed to be the final resting place of Imam Mashhad Ali, a descendant of Imam Ridha. For centuries, the identity of the shrine remained concealed until the discovery of the Persian epitaph during a routine cleaning operation before the visit of Lahore High Court Judge Shabbar Rizvi.
Who is Imam Ali Ridha?
Imam Ali Ridha (Imam Reza), the 8th Imam of the Shia Muslims
Imam Ali ibn Musa al-Ridha (a.s.), also known by revered titles such as Ghareeb al-Ghuraba, Moeen-uz-Zoafa wal-Fuqara, and Shah-e-Khurasaan, was the 8th Imam of the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.). His agnomen was Abul-Hasan. He was the noble son of Imam Moosa al-Kazim (a.s.), the 7th Imam, and Bibi Najma, also known as Ummul-Baneen. Imam Ridha (a.s.) was born in Madina on the 11th of Zi al-Qa’dah 148 AH (765 AD). He was martyred in Mashhad, Iran, on the 23rd of Zi al-Qa’dah 203 AH (817 AD) at the age of 55, according to most historical records, although some traditions mention 17th Safar. He was poisoned by the Abbasid Caliph Mamoon after serving as Imam for 30 years. His only son, Imam Muhammad al-Taqi al-Jawad (a.s.), succeeded him as the 9th Imam. The Imam’s majestic shrine in Mashhad is open 24/7 and attracts millions of visitors every year. Many books have been written about his life and teachings, such as Uyun Akhbar al-Ridha, Muntahal Aamal by Sheikh Abbas Qummi, and Sahifa Razaviyya containing his heartfelt supplications. Scholars like Allama Zeeshan Haider have also documented his life in detail. His noble lineage and legacy continue to inspire generations, as he remains a symbol of knowledge, patience, and divine leadership among the Ahlul Bayt (a.s.).
Life and Legacy
- Imam Reza was renowned for his knowledge, wisdom, humility, and generosity.
- He lived during a politically tense era under the Abbasid Caliphate, particularly during the rule of Caliph Al-Mamun, who invited him to Khorasan and controversially declared him as his successor.
- Despite accepting the title under political pressure, Imam Reza continued to preach justice, faith, and spiritual values.
- He was poisoned in 818 AD in Tus (present-day Iran), where his shrine now stands as one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the Islamic world.
Relevance to Samana
- Imam Mashhad Ali, whose shrine lies in Samana, is believed to be a direct descendant of Imam Reza, establishing a spiritual and genealogical connection.
- The reverence shown by local communities—Muslims, Sikhs, and Hindus—toward the descendant of Imam Reza signifies the universal respect for his teachings.
