Nizamuddin Dargah, Delhi
Nizamuddin Dargah in Delhi: The mausoleum of Nizamuddin Auliya, which is counted among the world's most famous Sufi saints. It is believed to be the holy shrine of Muslims. This Muhumed Tughlaq was built in 1324-51. It is one of Delhi's popular attractions, people here come in hundreds of thousands of days. The lavish Hazrat Nizamuddin Tomb has mesh, marble arches and patio. The devotees impose the red thread with a belief so that their desires are met. The sacred spot inside the tomb is covered with scented dark green cloth. The devotees put incense in front of the holy place, showering rose petals and praying.
Within the dargah complex, the famous poet Amir Khusro and the tomb of a Mughal princess Jahan Ara Begum is also located. Apart from this, you will find the tombs of many such people in the Dargah campus, after the death of the Sufi saint who had the desire to be buried next to him.
On any day, you can visit the dargah, but every Thursday, special Qawwali programs are organized in Nizamuddin Dargah, and the dargah is decorated with beautiful lights. Even Bollywood's loyalty is in the dargah and there are many traditional Qawwahili suits on the dargah, just like "Kun Phaya Kun" is filmed for the latest movie Rockstar. Islamic festivals, including Urs, and the death anniversaries of Sufi saints Nizamuddin Auliya and Amir Khusro are celebrated here.
History of Hazrat Nizammudin
Born in Badayun (3 April 1325), Uttar Pradesh, Nizamuddin Auliya was one of the most famous Sufi saint in the Indian subcontinent. His father passed away when he was just 5 years old, and soon after that his mother moved to Delhi along with him. After staying in Delhi for several years, Auliya decided to become the disciple of Baba Farid at the age of 20 and moved to Pakpattan (Pakistan), though not permanently. From here, his spiritual journey began and he unraveled many truths about God and his divine ways. Throughout his life, he preached the love for God as the love for humankind. He kept coming back to Delhi after every visit to Pakpattan and was later announced as the successor of Baba Farid. He ended up settling in Delhi itself and built his own 'Khanqah', where people from all walks of life were fed and imparted saintly sermons. Hazrat Nizamuddin left for his heavenly abode on the morning of 3 April 1325, leaving a rich legacy behind.
Architecture of Hazrat Nizammudin
Standing in grandeur, the building of Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah is an example of love and devotion. The tomb is adorned with intricate marble lattice screens called 'jalis' and marble arches. It is believed that if you wish for something and tie a holy thread at this jali, your wish will be fulfilled by the Lord himself. A magnificent wooden door leads to the Hujra-e-Qadeem which is reserved for the exclusive sama' (qawwali) gatherings of the Sufi. A wall right outside the room is embellished with a calligraphy by Urdu poet Allama Iqbal praising Nizamuddin Aulia. Right before the saint's grave lies the final resting place of Jehanara. There is a courtyard in the middle and inscriptions in Farsi all around. Inside the main tomb, the holy shrine is covered with perfumed dark green cloth. Devotees offer their prayers and wishes by showering flowers and lighting the incense sticks before the shrine. The grand architecture oozes the charm of mystic Sufi traditions, which is all about humanity and love.
Qawalli at the Dargah
Thursdays evenings here witness some of the most soul - stirring Qawalli performances by renowned artists. The vocalists sit down on the floor with their instruments and fellow singers and begin a divine invocation of the Gods. Melodious tunes reverberate through the entire complex, transporting you to a completely different dimension altogether. Throngs of people sit surrounding them, mesmerised by the intonations and instruments. If you happen to visit this destination, make sure you attend the Qawalli session, for it is an experience of a lifetime.
Best Time To Visit Nizamuddin Dargah
The best time to visit the shrine is on Thursday evenings, when live qawwali music performances are held inside the main tomb, starting around sunset and usually lasting a few hours. However, this is also the most crowded time, with both local community members and throngs of tourists visiting the shrine. If you're in search of quiet, it's best to come early in the morning.
Tips For Visiting Nizamuddin Dargah
- Men and women should cover their heads before entering the shrine.
- You’ll be expected to remove your shoes before entering; you can leave them with someone at the gate for a small donation.
- Arrive early to find somewhere to sit.
Opening Timings of the Nizamuddin Dargah
You can visit Nizamuddin Sahib ki Dargah from 5:00 AM till 10:30 PM in the night. However, if you want to witness the magical Qawwali session, then you can visit the mausoleum between 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM and 9:00 PM to 10:30 PM on Thursdays. You don’t have to pay any entry fee to visit the Dargah.
How to reach Nizamuddin Dargah
The nearest bus depot is Sarai Kale Khan which is at a distance of 6.7 kilometres. Buses regularly run from the depot to the tomb. Nearest metro stations include Pragati Maidan and Indraprastha.
By Rail: The tomb is approximately 2.5 km from Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station. Taxis, buses an auto rickshaws are easily available outside the station.
By Road: The nearest bus depot is Sarai Kale Khan which is at a distance of 6.7 kilometers. Buses regularly run from the depot to the tomb.
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