Sharif Dargah is a sufi shrine of a sufi saint, Moinuddin Chishti. It is located in Ajmer, a city of Rajasthan. The shrine houses the grave (Maqbara) of the revered saint and welcomes streams of devotees from all parts of the world.

History

Ajmer Sharif Dargah is dedicated to Moinuddin Chishti, 13th century sufi mystic saint and philosopher. He traveled to South Asia before finally settling in Ajmer. He died in 1236 and this Dargah was constructed in his memory by the sultan of Delhi Mohammad Bin Tughluq. Since then, Ajmer Sharif Dargah became extremely popular and welcomes people of all religious background and faiths.

Architecture

The main entrance of Ajmer Sharif Dargah is named as the Nizam Gate which is followed by the Shahjahani Gate. This gate was made by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Then you will witness the Buland Darwaza erected by Sultan Mahmood Khilji.

Urs Festival

The dargah is known for the celebrations of Urs festival, a major pilgrimage in the city of Ajmer. The Urs is an annual celebration of the saint’s blessings and an occasion to venerate his memory. Saint Moinuddin Chisti was a benefactor of the poor and the needy; hence he was also called Gareeb Nawaz.

Pilgrims belonging to all religions visit Ajmer throughout the year, to seek blessings of the saint. They also come back for thanksgiving and to make offerings. The Urs is held according to the lunar calendar, during the first six days of Rajab (seventh month of the Islamic calendar); this usually falls in the month of May.

There are numerous rituals carried out throughout the duration of the Urs Special Prasad (sanctified food) (Kheer, a rice and milk pudding) is made in large cauldrons to be given to the devout. Besides Kheer, dry fruits and condiments are also served. Qawwalis are sung every evening and mehfils (poetry reading sessions) are also organized. Qawwalis are religious songs sung in the praise of the Lord in a typical high-pitched voice. These sessions are extremely popular with all visitors and go on till late hours.