The life, writings and teachings of Hazrat Sultan Bahu (RA) form the centre of Prof. Dr. Sultan Altaf Ali's research. His work combines the study of manuscripts and historical sources with Urdu translation, commentary and the examination of Sufi thought.
Beginning in 1958, this work developed through the study of biography, manuscripts, Persian prose and the abyat. Prof. Dr. Sultan Altaf Ali examined the life and historical setting of Hazrat Sultan Bahu (RA), investigated the texts, and explored the teachings on Faqr and spiritual life expressed within them. His translations and commentaries make these studies available to Urdu readers.
His work on Hazrat Sultan Bahu (RA) sits within a broader engagement with Persian literature, Sufism and Islamic thought. The following subjects reflect that wider contribution.
Research on Persian literature in Pakistan and the subcontinent, including Pakistan–Iran cultural relations. His published work in this field includes Pak–Iran Cultural Relations Since 2500 Years, recorded in the résumé in 1971.
The practical work of studying Persian and Saraiki texts and presenting their meanings in Urdu. Qaisar Bhatti’s study considers his attention to textual accuracy, idiomatic expression and explanation, particularly in the works of Hazrat Sultan Bahu (RA).
Writing and conference papers on the life and example of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Muslim unity, education and society. These themes appear alongside his research in Sufi studies.
An examination of Khudi through Iqbal’s writings, including Asrar-e-Khudi and Rumuz-e-Bekhudi. Tafheem-e-Khudi represents this strand of his work; his articles also address the relationship between Iqbal’s thought and Hazrat Sultan Bahu (RA).
The professional résumé records twelve conference and seminar presentations. This selection includes papers on Hazrat Sultan Bahu (RA), Persian literature and Islamic thought, delivered in Pakistan, Iran and India.