International Spiritual Movement Anjuman Serfaroshan-e-Islam (ASI)

Beliefs and practices

ASI presents a blend of mystical and devotional elements. Members emphasise inner transformation through remembrance, devotion, meditation, and moral discipline. Teachings frequently highlight love, personal spiritual development, and the cultivation of virtues. The movement draws on broad currents of South Asian spiritual practice and uses lectures, study circles and written materials to transmit its ideas.

Organization and activities

Structure within the movement varies by locality. ASI organises gatherings, spiritual meetings, and study groups for followers. Typical activities include public talks, distribution of literature, and events intended to encourage prayer, meditation and ethical conduct. The movement has also produced books, newsletters and other publications to explain its teachings and reach an international readership.

History and spread

Founded at the start of the 1980s, ASI expanded as followers established local groups and centres in several countries. Its growth has been tied to the circulation of writings by the founder and to networks of disciples who organised meetings and outreach activities. The movement describes itself as international, with adherents living both inside Pakistan and among diaspora communities abroad.

Reception and notable facts

ASI has attracted a mixed reception. Supporters praise its focus on spiritual renewal and community, while critics and some religious authorities have questioned or rejected certain teachings and claims associated with the movement. Discussions about ASI have included legal and social controversies in its country of origin, and the organization’s status has been the subject of public debate. The Urdu name of the movement is often given as عالمی روحانی تحریک انجمن سرفروشانِ اسلام, and it is commonly referred to by the initials ASI.

Summary

• Founded in 1980 by Riaz Ahmed Gohar Shahi.
• Headquarters reported at Kotri in Sindh, Pakistan.
• Focuses on devotional practice, inner transformation and publication of spiritual literature.
• Has an international presence and a contested public reputation.