Ajmer Sharif Dargah

Ajmer Sharif, Ajmer Overview

Ajmer Sharif Dargah, also known as Ajmer Dargah, is the tomb of Moinuddin Chishti is one of the holiest places of worship in India not only for the Muslims but followers of every faith. Being the final resting place of the Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti, it has had an enormous contribution in spreading the ethical and spiritual values of Islam amongst masses.

Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti was a great Sufi Saint and dedicated his entire life to the upliftment of the poor and downtrodden. The shrine is visited by millions of people every year, as it is considered very sacred by people of all religions. Ajmer Sharif was built by the Mughal Emperor Humayun, hence justifying the rich Mughal Architecture. The Dargah has various constituents like tombs, courtyards and Daalaans. The major among these structures are- Nizam Gate, Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Aulia Masjid, Dargah Shrine, Mehfilkhana and about a dozen of other prominent establishments.

One can spot two huge cauldrons in the inner courtyard of the shrine. These containers have a capacity of 2240 kg and 4480 kg and are used during special occasions to cook sweet delicacies like Kheer.

History of Ajmer Sharif Dargah

Being the final resting place of the Gharib Nawaz Moin-ud-din Chisti, Dargah Ajmer Sharif is a perfect emblem of harmony and spirituality, and a must-visit for people seeking peace and tranquillity. It is believed that when the Sufi saint turned 114, he locked himself up for six days to pray and left his mortal body behind, which eventually led to this exquisite shrine being erected in his honour.

Hazrat Khwaja Moin-Ud-Din Chisti was considered as the founder of Islam in India and a great preacher of Islam throughout the world. He was widely known for his noble preaching and social deeds. He came to India from Persia and stayed in Lahore for a small span of time after which he finally settled in the city of Ajmer. He died in 1236, and since then his resting place is known to have immense spiritual powers. It is believed that every wish made from a pure heart at Dargah Sharif gets fulfilled.

Architecture of Ajmer Sharif Dargah

As the Dargah was erected by the Mughals, it is an excellent example of rich Mughal-style architecture. It was built in the thirteenth century. It can be approached through a giant gate known as the Buland Darwaza, which opens into the second courtyard.

The grave of the great Sufi saint, Hazrat Khwaja Moin-Ud-Din Chisti is kept in a domed chamber, which is guarded by a silver railing and marble screen. The atmosphere of Ajmer Sharif often resonates with the songs of various famous Qawwals, who visit the Dargah from all across the globe.

You can spot various Khadims looking out for the pilgrims and fakirs, who plead for alms before the Dargah. The material used in building the main tomb of Ajmer Sharif Dargah is mostly marble and gold plating, which is guarded by silver railings and a marble screen.

Outside the Dargah, there is a small market from where all the pilgrims buy the offerings. The massive cauldrons cannot be left unnoticed by the visitors. They are used to cook rice pudding on special occasions.

Celebrations at Ajmer Sharif Dargah

It is believed that when the Sufi saint turned 114, he locked himself up for six days to pray and left his mortal body behind. Hence, every year 'Urs', a beautiful celebration, is held for six days in the Dargah in the seventh month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The main entrance of the Holy Tomb which ordinarily is closed at night is kept open throughout the day and night (barring for 2 or 3 hours at night) during all the six days of Urs. This time is an especially colourful time to visit this holy shrine. A holy shrine, very in sync with the believers of Islamic faith and otherwise for spiritualists and believers of every faith.

Best Time To Visit Ajmer Sharif Dagah

The best time to visit Ajmer Sharif is in the first six days of the month of Rajab, when the famous Urs Fair is organised. The Dargah is adorned spectacularly during this time and hence is a visual treat for the visitors.

Tips For Visiting Ajmer Sharif Dargah

1. Modest clothing would be apt for this place of worship, but no rigid guidelines are followed.
2. Keep your belongings safe while travelling here, as lots of news regarding chain snatching and loots are reported by the travellers.
3. Do not carry expensive jewellery or gadgets while visiting the Dargah.

How To Reach Ajmer Sharif Dargah

There are ample bus services operated by the Government from every nook and corner of Rajasthan to the Ajmer Central Bus Station. Ajmer Sharif Dargah is located at a small distance of 2 km from Ajmer Town, and many buses and cabs are travelling from various part of the state to Dargah.