Haji Ali Dargah : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

The Haji Ali Dargah is a mosque and tomb located on an islet off the southern coast of Mumbai, India. Built during the 15th century, the Haji Ali Dargah is a popular pilgrimage site for both Muslims and Hindus alike. Across its 500 years of existence, the Haji Ali Dargah has also become an iconic landmark of Mumbai and a fixture in the culture of the city. In this blog, we will go through the interesting facts and information about the Haji Ali Dargah and its history, along with a travel guide for visiting the Dargah. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Haji Ali Dargah should definitely be one of the places of interest on your trip to Mumbai.

Interesting Facts About Haji Ali Dargah

1. Haji Ali Dargah is a famous Sufi shrine located on an islet in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Worli, Mumbai.

2. It is one of the most famous shrines in India and attracts thousands of devotees from different communities on a daily basis.

3. The dargah was built in 1431 by a wealthy Muslim merchant, Sayed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, who had come to India from Bukhara, Uzbekistan.

4. The dargah complex is made up of a mosque, a tomb, and a pavilion.

5. The shrine is also known for its beautiful marble and stone carvings with intricate designs.

6. It is said that the complex was built over the spot where the remains of Haji Ali were laid to rest after his death in the sea in 1431.

7. In recent years, the number of visitors to the shrine has grown to an estimated 40,000 people each day.

8. The annual Urs or annual celebration of Haji Ali Dargah is held in the Islamic month of Rajab-Shaban (May-June) and attracts even larger crowds.

9. On weekends and public holidays, the shrine is open to all non-Muslims, although they are not allowed to enter the tomb itself.

10. The shrine has also been the subject of several national and international films, including the Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire.

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History & Information About Haji Ali Dargah

The Haji Ali Dargah is a religious complex located on an island in the Mumbai harbor of Maharashtra, India. The Dargah (or shrine) is dedicated to the Muslim saint Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. The Dargah is a popular destination for Muslims and non-Muslims alike, and the site is frequented by pilgrims and worshippers from around the world.

The Dargah dates back to the 15th century and is believed to have been constructed in memory of Pir Haji Ali who lost his life while on a pilgrimage to Mecca in India. According to the legend, Pir Haji Ali died at sea and his casket miraculously drifted back to the shore near the spot where the Dargah now stands.

The interior of the Dargah consists of a large decorated hall known as the Mazaar. The hall features a grand silver-gated cenotaph which is believed to contain the remains of Pir Haji Ali. Around the mazaar are several other graves of past Muslim rulers such as the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and Shah Jahan.

The Haji Ali Dargah also contains a mosque (Masjid) which provides prayer space for worshippers. Attached to it is a large courtyard that can accommodate up to 5000 people, and is popular for its katha (sermon) sessions which are conducted regularly.

Traditionally, the Haji Ali Dargah was most popular among Hindus as a shrine to visit on the day of Mahashivratri to seek blessings from the saint. However, the site has become increasingly popular with Muslim pilgrims over the years. Before entering the complex, it is customary for visitors to offer chaadar (a cocoon-shaped cover) which is placed on top of the cenotaph. Visitors also offer fresh flowers, garlands and food items to the saint.

The Dargah also houses a charitable trust known as the ‘Haji Ali Dargah Trust’. The trust is responsible for organizing the annual Urs (festival) on the anniversary of Pir Haji Ali’s death. During the festival, the Mazaar opens to the public and free meals are provided to visitors.

Apart from religious services, the Haji Ali Dargah also houses a well-managed dispensary which provides free medical care and medicines to the poor and needy. The trust also runs several other services such as language classes, vocational and technical training as well as free accommodation for the poor.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Haji Ali Dargah

Haji Ali Dargah is a splendid tomb of a Muslim saint, located on an islet off the shoreline of Worli in the South Mumbai area of Maharashtra. It is an iconic spiritual place visited by people of all religions and faith.

Getting There:

The best way to reach Haji Ali Dargah is by bus or taxi. You can take a bus from Bandra station to Mahalaxmi Station and then from there take a 2-3 minute walk to Haji Ali junction which is very close to the mosque.

Timings:

Haji Ali Dargah is open in the mornings from 5 AM till 7 PM and re-opens after 12 PM. It is closed on Fridays and Sundays.

Note: On government holidays, the dargah is closed after 12 PM and visitors are requested to leave before 1 PM.

Attractions at Haji Ali Dargah:

1. Take a Look at the Beautiful White Mosque: The beautiful white façade of the Haji Ali Dargah with its intricate designs and carvings is a sight to behold.

2.Peaceful and Serene Atmosphere: You will be filled with a sense of peace and calm when you enter inside the premises of the dargah.

3. Aarti and Qawwali Performances: The main attraction here is the aarti and qawwali performances which take place daily and are free to attend.

4. Taste some delicious cuisines: Just outside the dargah, you will find stalls selling scrumptious cuisines like biryani, kebabs, pakoras, etc.

5. Throng of Devotees: You will be surprised to see the number of devotees visiting the dargah from all parts of the city.

Suggestions:

1.Plan your visit conveniently: Make sure you plan your visit in advance by finding out the exact timings and dress code.

2. Avoid Carrying CASH: It is not advisable to carry cash while visiting the dargah as you can pay the entry fee using a credit/debit card.

3. Don’t Touch the Tomb: It is strictly prohibited to touch or pass by the tomb of the saint.

4. Maintain Decorum: Make sure to follow the rules and regulations of the dargah as well as maintain decent behavior while visiting the place.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Haji Ali Dargah

Q. What is the history behind the Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai, Maharashtra?

A. The Haji Ali Dargah is a historical monument located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It was constructed in 1431 in memory of an 15th century Muslim merchant who lived in Mumbai. The merchant, Haji Ali, had made a pilgrimage to Mecca and upon his return, he requested a shrine be built near the shore of Worli Bay, Mumbai, to house his remains. The Dargah complex houses his tomb as well as two mosques and a massive white-domed marble structure that overlooks the Arabian Sea.

Q. How can I get to the Haji Ali Dargah complex in Mumbai?

A. The Haji Ali Dargah complex is conveniently located close to downtown Mumbai and is easily accessible by train, bus or taxi. The nearest railway station is Mahalaxmi station, and the nearest bus stops are Haji Ali and Mahalaxmi.

Q. Are non-Muslims allowed inside the Haji Ali Dargah complex in Mumbai?

A. Yes, non-Muslims are allowed to visit the Haji Ali Dargah complex in Mumbai. Visitors of all religions and backgrounds are welcome to admire the architecture and art of the complex.

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