Grounding Sectarianism: The end of syncretic traditions

Abstract

Abstract This article sets out to explore the sectarian differentiation that beset Pakistan from the very outset. In this study the events taking place at the national level, had the resonance at the local level, particularly in the district Mianwali. In a bid to explain the heightened sectarian tension, the role of Maulana Allahyar1 from Chakrala2, has been underscored as a devout exponent of Sunni/ Deobandi ascendancy, with wider implication. He employed munazara as the main instrument of stemming Shia dissemination. He upheld the cause of Sunni/Deobandi version of Islam in the midst of rising proselytization of Shias in the region. Because of his endeavors to counter the Shia’s creeping influence in Chakrala, came to be the epicenter of Islamic reformism. Hence along with the strivings of Allahyar, Chakrala too forms the main focus of study.