Whispers of a saint’s sister echo here. Welcome to the Maa Hajjani Masjid and Dargah a hidden gem nestled in Worli.
For over 112 years this majestic structure has stood overlooking the Arabian Sea a testament to faith and resilience. Built in 1908 during Sir George Sydenham’s governorship the Dargah’s Indo-Saracenic architecture is a beautiful blend of styles. Porbandar stone and basalt form its foundation showcasing subtle colonial influences in its ornate details.
The Dargah honors Ma Hajjani a saint believed to be the sister of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari whose tomb resides in the nearby Haji Ali Dargah. Legend whispers that both siblings perished at sea their bodies washing ashore near each other. This led to the construction of two separate Dargahs a testament to their individual piety.
But the story of Maa Hajjani Masjid and Dargah doesn’t end with legend. Haji Ismail Hasham Yusuf a prominent figure in Indian shipping played a pivotal role. He commissioned the Dargah as a tribute to Ma Hajiani and his own family’s history is intertwined with the site. His tomb along with that of his son Sir Mohamed Yusuf are also found within the Dargah’s sacred grounds. Sir Mohamed Yusuf’s legacy extends beyond this. He secured vast tracts of land including the island of Nhava where the Training Ship Rahaman a significant nautical institution still stands today.
The Dargah’s design is ingenious. Its elevated plinth a natural outcrop skillfully finished with masonry is a marvel of engineering. The dome unique in its construction on a rectangular base instead of a square one is a feat of architectural skill. Inside the Dargah you’ll find a serene courtyard and verandahs offering respite from the bustling city. A skylight installed during recent renovations illuminates the dome creating a breathtaking view.
Women have always been central to the Dargah’s spiritual life. They frequently visit offering red bangles for marriage or green for offspring. This vibrant devotion speaks volumes about the Dargah’s enduring significance in the community. Recent restoration efforts led by conservation architect Vikas Dilawari breathed new life into the Dargah. Repairs included the careful reconstruction of leaning minarets dome waterproofing and the replacement of missing Porbandar stone pieces. The Dargah’s iconic blue dome a later addition now radiates its original glory.
The Maa Hajjani Masjid and Dargah is more than just a place of worship. It’s a living testament to Mumbai’s rich history a unique blend of faith architecture and community. Its serene beauty stands in stark contrast to the city’s vibrant energy. Take a moment here breathe in the peace and feel the echoes of centuries past. This is a place of reverence a sanctuary of serenity. A place where history whispers stories of faith devotion and the enduring power of the human spirit.