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who said delhi abhi dur hai ?

### Delhi Abhi Door Hai: The Story Behind the Famous Saying

In the annals of Indian history, certain sayings stand out not just for their lyrical quality but for the pivotal moments they symbolise. One such saying is, “Abhi Dilli Door Hai” (हनूज़ दिल्ली दूर आस्त) in Persian, which means “Delhi is still far away” in English. It’s a phrase deeply rooted in the lore of Delhi’s history, especially during the reign of Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq, and reflects the wisdom of the revered Sufi saint, Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya.

#### The Historical Context

Muhammad bin Tughluq initially ruled over Delhi from 1325 to 1351. During his reign, he made a drastic move by shifting the capital of his empire from Delhi to Devagiri (modern-day Daulatabad), which he renamed to New Delhi. This decision was motivated by his ambition to cut costs by relocating administration closer to the Gangeticdoab, but he faced massive resistance and logistical issues that eventually led to the recapture of Delhi.

#### The Role of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya

Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya was a renowned Sufi saint who lived in the outskirts of Delhi during Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq’s reign. Known for his humility and wisdom, Hazrat Nizamuddin had a significant influence over the Sultan, along with his disciple, Amir Khusro.

One notable incident involving Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya and the phrase “Abhi Dilli Door Hai” is often cited as the inspiration behind this saying. When the Sultan was planning to capture Delhi back from his former subordinates, he was informed by his successor, Alagh Khan, that the Sultan’s forces were approaching the city.

Instead of rejoicing at the news of his return, the Sultan felt anxious and doubtful about his victory. Amidst his uncertainty, he sent a messenger to Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya to seek guidance.

#### The Saying’s Origin

In response to the messenger, Nizamuddin Auliya is said to have written “Hunooz Dilli Door Ast” in Persian on the letter. The phrase conveyed the idea that the obstacles and challenges that lay ahead were not yet overcome, and the journey to victory was still long. This advice not only reflected Hazrat Nizamuddin’s wisdom but also his deep-seated desire for the Sultan’s triumph to be founded on righteousness and inner strength rather than mere brute force.

#### Modern Interpretation and Usage

Today, the phrase “Abhi Dilli Door Hai” has evolved beyond its historical context and taken on a broader meaning. It is often used metaphorically to signify that a major goal or milestone is still not within reach and that there is still much work to be done. This saying has been embraced in various spheres of life, from sports to politics.

In the realm of sports, former Pakistani cricket captain Mushtaq Mohammed evoked the spirit of the phrase during the Cricket World Cup 2019. He highlighted how Pakistan still had a long path to achieving their semi-finals goal, echoing the reminder that success requires perseverance and resilience.

#### Conclusion

The saying “Abhi Dilli Door Hai” encapsulates the timeless wisdom of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya. It speaks to the enduring human experience of striving towards greater goals while acknowledging the challenges and uncertainties that come with that journey. Its relevance in modern times underscores its enduring value as a reminder of the spiritual and moral principles that guided ancient Indian sages like Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya.

Through this narrative, we not only learn about the intricacies of Mughal history but also gain an insight into the profound influence of Sufi wisdom on the cultural and philosophical fabric of India.

So the next time you hear someone say “Delhi abhi door hai,” remember that it’s more than just a casual observation—it’s a nod to a rich tapestry of history, wisdom, and the timeless pursuit of excellence in life.