G.M‑ism – The Philosophy of G. M. Syed
G.M‑ism is the comprehensive philosophical worldview developed by Ghulam Murtaza Syed (1904–1995)—reverently known as Saeen G. M. Syed. A visionary Sindhi thinker, political leader, and founder of modern Sindhi nationalism, Syed synthesized Sindhi ethno-nationalism, secular humanism, Sufi spiritualism, and democratic socialism into a unified ideology. G.M‑ism remains the intellectual foundation of the Sindhudesh movement and continues to inspire peaceful resistance and cultural revival in Sindh.
1. Sindhi Nationalism and the Sindhudesh Vision
At the heart of G.M‑ism lies the belief that Sindhis are a distinct nation with their own history, language, culture, and civilization. Following the creation of Bangladesh in 1971, G. M. Syed publicly proposed the idea of Sindhudesh—an independent or autonomous homeland for Sindhis—rejecting the centralized and authoritarian policies of the Pakistani state. In 1972, he founded the Jeay Sindh Tehreek, launching a peaceful political movement for Sindhi self-determination.
2. Political Career of Sain G. M. Syed (1920–1995)
G. M. Syed entered politics in the 1920s while still in his teens. His 75-year political journey can be divided into four distinct phases, each marked by his unwavering principles despite personal costs.
- Congress Era (1930s):
Syed joined the Indian National Congress but left in 1938 after his proposed reforms—such as land transfer laws, tenancy rights, and agricultural loans—were dismissed as "local issues." Despite efforts by Sardar Patel and Maulana Azad to persuade him, he stood firm on his principles and resigned.
- Muslim League (1938–1946):
He played a pivotal role in popularizing the All-India Muslim League in Sindh. In 1943, he helped pass a resolution in the Sindh Assembly supporting the Lahore Resolution (1940), which advocated autonomous states for Muslim-majority regions. However, he left the League in 1946 after disagreeing with its undemocratic ticket distribution. He contested independently but lost, allegedly due to rigging.
- Struggle Against Authoritarianism (1947–1969):
Syed opposed the annexation of Karachi from Sindh, the exploitation of Sindh’s resources, and the One Unit Scheme under Ayub Khan. In 1966, he founded Bazm-e-Soofia-e-Sindh, using Sufi shrines and festivals for political awareness.
- Sindhudesh Movement (1970–1995):
After the fall of East Pakistan (1971), Syed concluded that Sindh needed independence. He formed the Jeay Sindh Mahaz (1972), advocating for a sovereign Sindhudesh through peaceful means.
3. Secularism Rooted in Sufi Philosophy
G.M‑ism draws deeply from Sindh’s Sufi tradition, particularly the teachings of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. Syed envisioned a secular, pluralistic society based on tolerance, peace, and spiritual ethics, rejecting religious extremism and political Islam.
4. Social Justice and Democratic Socialism
Influenced by Gandhi, Marx, and anti-colonial movements, Syed advocated:
- Agrarian reforms and peasant rights
- Free universal education
- Equitable resource distribution
- Empowerment of marginalized communities
He saw social justice as integral to national liberation and championed nonviolent resistance.
5. Intellectual Independence and Cultural Revival
A prolific writer, Syed authored over 60 books in Sindhi, Urdu, and English, covering history, politics, Sufism, and literature. His works emphasized:
- Critical thinking and intellectual freedom
- Revival of Sindhi language and identity
- Decolonization of indigenous thought
6. Legacy of Peaceful Resistance
Syed endured 32 years in prison or house arrest, earning recognition from Amnesty International as a "Prisoner of Conscience." Despite persecution, he remained committed to nonviolence and dialogue. His legacy lives on through the Jeay Sindh movement and global Sindhi activism.
📚 Selected Works of G. M. Syed
Syed’s writings remain foundational for Sindhi nationalism and progressive thought:
English Works:
- Sindh Speaks
- Struggle for New Sindh
- Religion and Reality
- Shah Latif’s Message
- A Nation in Chains
- The Case of Sindh
- Sindhudesh: The Nationhood of Sindh
Sindhi & Urdu Works:
- Jeean Ditho Aahe Mun (جيئن ڏٺو آهي مون)
- Sindh Ja Soorma
- Nae Sindh La Jaddojahd
- Khitbaat-e-Syed (Collected Speeches)
- Mere Hamdam, Mere Dost (Autobiography)
Note: Over 72 titles have been documented, available in libraries and online archives.
🌍 Global Relevance of G.M‑ism
In an era of cultural erasure, state oppression, and identity crises, G.M‑ism offers a model for:
- ✅ Peaceful self-determination
- ✅ Inclusive nationalism
- ✅ Spiritual democracy
- ✅ Social justice
It continues to guide Sindhi intellectuals, activists, and diaspora communities in their struggle for dignity, freedom, and sovereignty.
