How does an ordinary grave become a mazar in Tree Without Roots

Answer

How does an ordinary grave become a mazar in “Tree Without Roots?” 

Syed Waliullah’s (1922-1971) “Tree Without Roots” (1948) shows how superstition and false faith control the minds of rural people. The story begins with Majeed’s arrival in Mahabbatpur and his creation of a fake shrine. An ordinary grave, through lies and fear, becomes a mazar. 

Majeed’s Arrival and False Dream: When Majeed comes to Mahabbatpur, he finds an old and forgotten grave. He sees in it an opportunity to build his fortune. He tells the villagers that he had a dream about Saint Shah Sadeque. In that dream, the saint ordered him to come to Mahabbatpur and spread his message. Majeed says that the saint told him, 

“Its inhabitants did not know that he lived among them unattended and uncared.” 

This story immediately impresses the villagers and makes them believe in the holiness of the place. Thus, the seed of superstition begins to grow.

Creating Fear and Faith Among Villagers: Majeed knows that fear strengthens faith. He tells the villagers that they have ignored the saint’s grave for years and must now suffer the saint’s anger. He frightens them by saying that their neglect could bring drought, famine, or pestilence. Out of fear, the villagers begin to worship the grave. They clean the place, light candles, and pray. Soon, the unknown grave becomes the “mazar of Saint Shah Sadeque.” 

Spreading Rituals and False Devotion: Once the villagers believe, Majeed strengthens the lie by creating rituals. He covers the grave with a red cloth and burns incense sticks. He teaches people to bring offerings and prayers to the mazar. He says that the saint blesses those who are faithful. Slowly, the place becomes crowded with visitors. Coins and gifts are left on the grave. Through these acts, an ordinary grave becomes a sacred shrine.

In “Tree Without Roots,” Majeed converts a simple grave into a mazar through lies, fear, and people’s blind faith. His clever use of superstition exposes the weakness of