Ajmer Sharif Dargah-The Place of Allah

Dargah Sharif is among the most sacred Muslim shrines in India. Revered by both Muslims and Hindus, this tomb of Khwaja Moin-ud-di
Chishti holds great religious significance. Named after Khwaja Moinudin Chishti, a Sufi saint who devoted his life to the upliftment of poor, the tomb has a huge gate with silver doors. Its structural architecture reflects the touch of Mughal rulers. Made of white marble with a gold plated dome, it looks spectacular with a silver railing and a marble screen that surrounds the tomb. The troubled come here to seek the boon or blessings of the saint. Legends say that Akbar, a Mughal emperor visit here in the 16th century in search of a boon for an heir and his wish got fulfilled. Since then, the place is believed to be a holy site where you get your prayers answered.

Every year a religious fair, Urs is held here for six days in the remembrance of the saint. According to the legend, once the saint locked himself to pray. After six days, he left his mortal body in isolation. During this time of the year, many devotees visit the place and cook food in large cauldrons. The amazing part is that the people serve the food while standing inside the cauldrons.

Inside the Dargah, there is a mosque, built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. The impressive building in white marble with a narrow courtyard has the exquisite carvings, which add beauty to the monument.

The devotees make rich offerings, known as 'Nazrana' at the holy spot where the saint is entombed.
The offerings include sandalwood paste, rose and jasmine flowers, incense and perfumes that add fragrance to the air. Pilgrims traverse the gate seven times. People believe that by doing so, they will get a secured place in heaven.

Many pilgrims also make cash offerings. The devotees also offer the Chadar, Ghilaph and Neema to the tomb. Outside the sacred spot of the Dargah, 'Qawwals', the professional singers sit in groups and sing prayers in praise of the saint. Many 'Fakirs' or beggars stand on the main gate and beg for alms in the name of the Khwaja. Qawwalis or religious songs at the holy shrines with the aura of the incense sticks make the atmosphere divine.

The Dargah is at the juxtaposition of three bazaars. The shops in the nearby market sell textiles, flowers, rosaries, prayer mats and general merchandise. Around the Dargah, there are several restaurants where you can choose from a variety of dishes. However, most of them are non-vegetarian preparations. The nearby guest houses offer accommodation that ranges from budget accommodation to the luxurious one.