The Khwaja Garib Nawaz Dargah Sharif is a holy shrine in Ajmer in Rajasthan, India. This Dargah (a Muslim shrine built over the grave of a revered religious figure) is dedicated to the great Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, who is also known as Garib Nawaz (the helper of the poor). The Dargah is considered one of the most important Sufi shrines in India and attracts many devotees worldwide.
Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti was born in Persia in the 12th century and arrived in India in the early 13th century. He settled in Ajmer and spent the rest of his life spreading love, peace, and harmony. He was known for his teachings of Sufism, a mystical branch of Islam that emphasizes the inward search for God and attaining spiritual enlightenment.
The Khwaja Garib Nawaz Dargah Sharif was built over Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti's grave in the 13th century by the Mughal emperor Humayun. The Dargah has been expanded and renovated several times over the centuries and now covers an area of over 10 acres. The main entrance to the Dargah is through the Nizam Gate, built by the Nizam of Hyderabad in the early 20th century.
The Dargah complex consists of several buildings and courtyards, including the main prayer hall, the Jama Masjid, and the Akbari Masjid, built by the Mughal emperor Akbar. The Dargah also has several tombs of important figures in the Chishti order, including Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti's disciple Khwaja Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki and his grandson Khwaja Fariduddin Ganjshakar.
One of the most important rituals at the Khwaja Garib Nawaz Dargah Sharif is offering chadar (a silk cloth) at the saint's grave. Devotees also offer flowers, sweets, and incense at the Dargah. The Dargah is especially crowded during the annual Urs festival, commemorating Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti's death anniversary. The festival attracts millions of devotees worldwide and is known for its vibrant atmosphere and Sufi music performances.
The Khwaja Garib Nawaz Dargah Sharif is a place of worship and a symbol of India's rich cultural and religious heritage. It is a place where people of different religions and backgrounds come together to seek the great saint's blessings and experience the power of love and spirituality.
Places To Visit Nearby Khwaja Gharib Nawaz Dargah Sharif:
Located just a few kilometres from the Dargah, Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra is an ancient mosque built in the 12th century. It is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
This scenic lake is located in the heart of Ajmer and is a popular spot for boating and picnics. Several gardens and parks around the lake are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Also known as the "Star Fort," Taragarh Fort is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of Ajmer and the surrounding Aravalli hills. The fort is also known for its intricate carvings and ancient architecture.
Located just 14 kilometres from Ajmer, Pushkar is a small town famous for its holy lake and the annual Pushkar Camel Fair. The city is also home to several ancient temples and ghats.
Ajmer Jain Temple:
This beautiful temple is located in the heart of Ajmer and is dedicated to Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of the Jains. The temple is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
This scenic lake is just a few kilometres from Ajmer and is a popular spot for picnics and boating. The lake offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and is a great place to relax and unwind.