Haji Ali Dargah is a popular pilgrimage site located in Mumbai, India. It is a tomb and mosque that houses the mortal remains of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, a 15th-century Sufi saint. The dargah is located on a small islet off the southern coast of Mumbai near Worli and can only be accessed during low tides via a causeway surrounded by the sea on all sides.
The Haji Ali Dargah is an iconic landmark in Mumbai and attracts people from all walks of life and religions. The construction you can see today is a result of the 20th-century fortresses. The dargah is made of white marble and is built in the Indo-Islamic style of architecture. The central dome of the dargah is a major attraction and adds to the architectural beauty of the shrine. Visitors can seek spiritual solace at their convenience as the dargah is open to devotees and visitors throughout the week from 5:30 am until 10:00 p.m.
History and Legends
Haji Ali Dargah, located in Mumbai, is a mausoleum that houses the tomb of the revered Muslim saint, Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. The dargah is situated on a small island off the Worli coast and was built in 1431 AD. The dargah is a significant religious site for Muslims and attracts millions of devotees from all over the world.
According to legend, Haji Ali Shah Bukhari was a wealthy Muslim merchant from Bukhara, Uzbekistan. He gave up all his worldly possessions and decided to go on a pilgrimage to Mecca. During his journey, Haji Ali Shah Bukhari arrived in Mumbai, where he became ill and passed away. His followers then built the dargah in his memory on the site where his body was found.
Another popular legend associated with the dargah is that Haji Ali Shah Bukhari had the power to heal the sick. It is believed that he would sprinkle water from the nearby sea on the sick, and they would be cured of their ailments.
The construction of the dargah is also steeped in legend. It is said that the saint Haji Ali Shah Bukhari himself appeared in the dream of the chief architect and instructed him on how to build the dargah. The architect followed the instructions and miraculously completed the construction of the dargah despite the challenges posed by the sea.
Today, the Haji Ali Dargah is a symbol of faith, devotion, and spirituality for millions of people. It is open to visitors every day of the week and does not charge an entry fee. Donations are accepted, and visitors are expected to dress modestly and follow the customs and traditions of the dargah.
Architectural Details
The Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai is a stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture. The dargah is built on an islet off the coast of Worli in southern Mumbai and is a popular pilgrimage site for Muslims. The architectural beauty of the dargah is breathtaking with its white marble pillars, central dome, and mirror work.
The dargah was built in the 15th century in memory of the Sufi saint, Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. The structure underwent renovation in the early 19th century and was rebuilt with white marble. The dargah is a beautiful blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture, with intricate carvings and designs on the walls and ceilings.
The central dome of the dargah is a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic style. It is adorned with beautiful carvings and has intricate designs on its surface. The dome is supported by four marble pillars, which are beautifully carved and decorated with mirrorwork.
The shrine inside the dargah is made of marble and is decorated with gold and silver. The marble used in the construction of the dargah is of the highest quality and is sourced from Rajasthan. The dargah is surrounded by the Arabian Sea and offers stunning views of the city.
Overall, the Haji Ali Dargah is a marvel of Indo-Islamic architecture and is a must-visit for anyone interested in architectural beauty and history.
Location and How to Reach
Haji Ali Dargah is located on an islet off the coast of Worli in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The dargah is situated in the middle of the Arabian Sea and is connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway that is approximately 500 yards long. The area surrounding the dargah is known as Haji Ali and is a popular tourist destination in Mumbai.
The dargah can be easily reached by road and local train. The nearest railway station is Mahalaxmi, which is located on the Western Line of the Mumbai Suburban Railway. From the station, one can take a taxi or bus to reach the dargah. The dargah is also easily accessible by road and can be reached via Lala Lajpat Rai Marg.
Visitors are advised to check the timings of the high tide before visiting the dargah as the causeway leading to the dargah gets submerged during high tide. It is best to visit the dargah during low tide as the water recedes and the causeway becomes visible. The opening time of the dargah is 5:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., every day throughout the year.
The dargah is visited by over 40,000 visitors on all days, especially on Thursdays and Fridays. Visitors are advised to dress modestly and remove their footwear before entering the dargah. Photography is allowed inside the dargah, but visitors are requested to be respectful and not disturb the peace and serenity of the place.
Timings and Entry Details
Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset every day. The exact opening and closing times may vary throughout the year due to changes in sunrise and sunset timings. Visitors are advised to check the timings before planning their visit.
There is no entry fee to visit the Haji Ali Dargah. However, visitors are welcome to make donations to support the upkeep and maintenance of the shrine.
Visitors are required to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the Dargah. Men are required to wear full-length pants and shirts, while women are required to wear clothes that cover their arms and legs. It is also recommended to remove shoes before entering the shrine.
Photography is allowed inside the Dargah, but visitors are requested to respect the sanctity of the place and not to disturb other visitors.
Overall, the Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the city. The timings and entry details are simple, making it easy for visitors to plan their visit.
Rituals and Religious Significance
Haji Ali Dargah is a significant religious site for Muslims in Mumbai and an important pilgrimage destination. The dargah is visited by thousands of devotees every day, especially on Thursdays and Fridays. Visitors come to offer prayers and seek spiritual solace at this revered site.
The dargah is dedicated to Sayyed Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, a 15th-century Sufi saint who devoted his life to the service of Allah. The saint’s mortal remains are enshrined in the dargah, which was built in his memory in 1431.
Devotees offer chaddar (a piece of cloth) and flowers at the shrine as a symbol of their devotion and gratitude. The dargah also has a qawwal khana (a room for devotional music) where qawwali (a form of Sufi devotional music) is performed to honor the saint.
The dargah has separate praying rooms for men and women, where visitors can offer their prayers. The site is open to visitors of all faiths, and it welcomes people who seek spiritual solace.
The annual Urs (death anniversary) of the saint is celebrated with great fervor and devotion. During Urs, the dargah is decorated with lights, and devotees offer special prayers and perform rituals to honor the saint.
Overall, Haji Ali Dargah is a place of great religious significance and spirituality. It is a site where people can come to seek solace and connect with their faith.
Nearby Attractions
Haji Ali Dargah is located in Worli, which is a bustling area of Mumbai with a lot of attractions nearby. Visitors can explore the following places:
- Nehru Planetarium: Located in Worli, Nehru Planetarium is a popular attraction for science enthusiasts. It offers a range of shows and exhibitions that are both educational and entertaining.
- Mahalakshmi Temple: The Mahalakshmi Temple is located near Haji Ali Dargah and is dedicated to the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
- Bollywood: Mumbai is known as the Bollywood capital of India, and visitors can explore the film studios and watch movies at the many theaters in the area.
- Worli Coast: The Worli Coast offers a beautiful view of the Arabian Sea and is a popular spot for picnics and walks.
- Taj Mahal Palace: The Taj Mahal Palace is a historic hotel located in Colaba, near the Gateway of India. It is a beautiful example of colonial architecture and offers a range of dining and entertainment options.
- Bandra: Bandra is a trendy neighborhood in Mumbai that is known for its nightlife, shopping, and street food.
- Chowpatty Beach: Chowpatty Beach is a popular beach in Mumbai that offers a range of activities, including camel rides and street food.
- Elephanta Caves: The Elephanta Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on an island near Mumbai. They feature ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures.
- Gateway of India: The Gateway of India is a historic monument located in Colaba. It was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai in 1911.
- Colaba Causeway: Colaba Causeway is a popular shopping street in Mumbai that offers a range of goods, including clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the visiting hours of Haji Ali Dargah?
Haji Ali Dargah opens its doors at sunrise and closes at sunset. The exact timings may vary throughout the year due to changes in sunrise and sunset timings.
How can I reach Haji Ali Dargah?
Haji Ali Dargah is located on an islet off the coast of Worli in Mumbai. Visitors can reach the Dargah by taking a cab or a bus from Mumbai. The nearest railway station is Mahalaxmi, which is about 1.5 km away from the Dargah.
Who built Haji Ali Dargah?
Haji Ali Dargah was built in 1431 by a wealthy Muslim merchant from Bukhara, Sayyed Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari. He was a Sufi saint and is believed to have renounced all his worldly possessions before embarking on a pilgrimage to Mecca.
What is the dress code for visiting Haji Ali Dargah?
Visitors are expected to dress modestly when visiting Haji Ali Dargah. Men are required to wear full-length pants and shirts, while women are expected to wear clothes that cover their arms and legs. It is also recommended to wear a headscarf or a cap.
What is the material used to build Haji Ali Dargah?
Haji Ali Dargah is built using white marble and has an Indo-Islamic architectural style. The Dargah is supported by a complex system of pillars and arches, which gives it a unique and striking appearance.
What is the largest Dargah in India?
The largest Dargah in India is the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, located in Ajmer, Rajasthan. It is the final resting place of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti and attracts millions of visitors every year.
