“Have problems?” That’s what many whisper as they approach Matka Peer Dargah. This dargah is not just a historical site. It is a beacon of hope for countless souls.
Let me tell you about this special place. Matka Peer Dargah is over 750 years old. It stands on Purana Qila Road in Central Delhi. People believe prayers are answered here. They offer a “matka” or earthen pot in return.
The story of Matka Peer Dargah begins with Hazrat Sheikh Abu Bakar. He was a Sufi saint from Iran. He migrated to India in 1257 CE. He chose this very spot to meditate. Legend says he had a silver pot. It was filled with water. He offered this water to those in need. Their problems and diseases vanished.
Word of his miracles spread quickly. Today people from all over India and even abroad visit. They come irrespective of caste or religion. They come with unwavering faith. If their wishes are fulfilled, they offer a matka. These pots hang from the trees. The matka can be made of clay, silver, or gold. It depends on what the devotee can afford.
Mohammad Salim has served at the dargah for many years. He says devotees offer matkas when their wishes come true.
There is a unique story about Sultan Ghiyasuddin Balban. He was the ruler of Delhi. He wanted to test the saint’s powers. He sent a platter of iron balls and mud. Matka Peer covered the platter and prayed. When he uncovered it, the iron balls had turned into roasted grams. The mud had turned into jaggery. The Baba mixed these with water. He made sweet milk. This is why he is called Baba Matka Pir. People offer these ingredients in an earthen pot.
Another legend says Shaikh Abu Bakr would fill an earthen pot with water from the Yamuna or gur-sweetened sherbet. He offered it to those who thronged his hospice.
Sadly, the saint’s miraculous powers led to his death. He could turn mud into gold. He distributed it among the needy. Some disciples thought he hid gold in the dargah. They murdered him seeking this treasure. They found nothing.
Outside the dargah, you will find shops. They sell red rose petals and incense sticks. You can also find sugarcoated offerings. Don’t miss Baba Shahi Bawarchi. It is a biryani shop that has been here for 50 years. The biryani here is very popular.
The unique feature of Matka Peer Dargah is the pots hanging from the trees. People offer gur and chana at the shrine too. The saint held gatherings called sama. These gatherings helped spread Islam in India during the medieval period.
So, take a moment to look around. Feel the spiritual energy. Notice the matkas hanging from the trees. Remember the story of Hazrat Sheikh Abu Bakar. Consider the unwavering faith that brings people here. Matka Peer Dargah is more than a monument. It is a testament to the power of belief and hope.