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In the religious and spiritual realm,
Panipat has had a rich tradition of Sufi saints and scholars. The most
famous of these was Bu-Ali-Shah-Qalandar, whose dargah has been a sacred
pilgrimage since 13th century.
The Revered Sufi Saint
Bu
Ali Shah Qalandar was born in 1209 AD when Qutubuddin Aibak was the ruler
in Delhi . He lived
for nearly 112 years and was deeply revered by both the Hindus and Muslims
for his deep spirituality and miraculous powers. During phases of doubt
and anguish, Alauddin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi used to visit
Bu-Ali-Shah-Qalandar at Panipat and seek his blessings. Amir Khusro was a
frequent visitor to this Sufi Saint. Khusro was deeply moved by
Bu-Ali-Shah-Qalandar's wisdom and words.
In 1324, the Saint passed away at the age of 112 years and Emperor
Ghyasuddin of Delhi built a tomb in his memory. It is situated just
outside the town. The grave is made of marble and decorated with beautiful
sculpture. The monument underwent successive additions and alterations.
During Aurangzeb's reign, (1658-1707) a front verandah with beautiful
paintings and stylistic calligraphy was added. A marble screen in its
front displays fine workmanship and echoes the Mughal style 'jalis' so
present in the buildings in Agra and Delhi.
Time For Festivity
Today, the Dargah beckons pilgrims from far and near and Urs Mubarak is
celebrated joyously with Sufi abandon every year on the Saint's death
anniversary. The WAKF Board makes the arrangements. The Dargah has a
'langar' on this day every year and every Thursday. People of all
religious denominations converge to pay obeisance to the Saint.
There is a beautiful tank in the Dargah and the precincts have been
landscaped. A library has been built which houses books on Sufism and
saints.