Question: What if I told you that nestled in South Delhi lies a place where women find solace unlike many other dargahs? This is Dargah Mir Saheb. It is not just a mausoleum. It is a beacon of hope especially for women.
The Dargah Mir Saheb stands as a testament to Sufi traditions. It is also known for its unique acceptance of women within its sacred spaces. Here, women are not just visitors. They are welcomed into the very heart of the shrine. This is unlike many other dargahs in India.
Let’s delve deeper into the story of this revered place. The Dargah Mir Saheb is dedicated to Bibi Zulekha. She was the mother of the 14th-century Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya. Bibi Zulekha’s journey to India was marked by hardship. Her parents migrated from Bukhara due to Mongol invasions. They sought refuge in Badayun. She later moved to Delhi after her husband’s death.
Bibi Zulekha passed away in 1250 CE. She was buried with her daughter Bibi Zainab in the same room where they lived. Even before her son gained recognition she was a beloved Sufi.
The Dargah Mir Saheb has a unique cultural significance. It attracts devotees from all faiths. It is particularly popular among women. They believe that Mai Sahiba understands their sorrows and grants them blessings. Wednesdays are especially significant. On Wednesdays over 5000 devotees gather seeking blessings.
Each year the dargah celebrates Urs for three days. This starts on the 29th of Jamad al Thani month. This celebration includes special prayers and qawwalis. Qawwals from around the world participate. Vegetarian food is served. Tehri is also offered. Tehri is a dish made with chanaa and aloo. It was Mai Sahiba’s favorite.
The architecture of the Dargah Mir Saheb is interesting. The main grave is on a raised platform. It measures about 1.7 meters by 0.88 meters and stands 0.5 meters high. The grave is surrounded by metal latticework. The floor is covered in marble. The original foundation uses rubble masonry. Concrete and marble make up the rest of the structure.
The Dargah Mir Saheb also includes a Friday mosque. It is called Jama Masjid Bibi Fatima Zahra. The mosque features a framed picture of Gunbad-e-Khazra. It also has the Kaaba. Graves of Bibi Hoor and Bibi Noor are inside. They were daughters of Sheikh Najibuddin Mutawakkil.
Once the Dargah Mir Saheb was visible from Mehrauli. It was historically referred to as Sarai Namak. Today it is located behind the shops of the Adhchini market. It is on Sri Aurobindo Marg in South Delhi.
So as you stand here remember the story of Bibi Zulekha. Remember the thousands of women who have sought solace here. This is a place where faith transcends boundaries. It is a symbol of hope and acceptance. Dargah Mir Saheb remains a sanctuary. It welcomes all with open arms.