Shaikh Mohammad Ashraf, known by his pen name Ashraf, was a poet of the Nizam Shahi Dynasty, active during the reign of Malik Nizam ul Mulk. Little is known about his life, though it is documented that he was a disciple of Ziya Uddin. Ashraf’s most notable work is the Mathnavi titled Nausarhaar, written during this period. There is debate over his place of origin, with some attributing him to Ahmad Nagar and others to Bijapur; however, the majority of scholars believe he hailed from Ahmad Nagar.

Naseeruddin Hashmi mentions, Nausarhaar is considered the first Mathnavi in Dakhni to address the events of Karbala. The Mathnavi is divided into nine chapters, with the first chapter devoted to Hamd (praise of God), the second explaining the reasons for composing the work, and the subsequent chapters detailing the tragic events of Karbala. In his work, Ashraf reflects on his life, expressing a sense of futility and lamenting that he had not achieved anything of lasting significance.

Further Readings:
1. Hashmi, Naseer-Uddin. Dakan MeiN Urdu. 1st ed., Taraqqi Urdu Bureau, 1985