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DARGAH SHARIF OF HAZRAT NIZAMUDDIN AULIA (R.A.)
A SANCTUARY OF HISTORY, HERITAGE, AND SPIRITUAL LEGACY
Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia (R.A.) lived during the reigns of thirteen rulers of the Delhi Sultanate. Yet it is historically well attested that he never paid a visit to any king or emperor. A well-known saying attributed to the Sufi tradition captures this distinction: emperors rule over land, but Sufis rule over hearts—and the rule over hearts is eternal. This principled distance from political power shaped the moral authority of Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia and remains central to his legacy. Alauddin Khilji wanted to visit Nizamuddin’s khanqah. The master said: “My house has two doors. If the sultan enters through one, I will exit through the other.” A detailed biography of the saint is available in the designated section of this website. For centuries, the Dargah has remained an important site of historical memory, intellectual discourse, and India’s syncretic tradition. It is often said that to understand the history of Delhi, one must also understand the life and legacy of Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia.
Over time, the Dargah has attracted emperors, poets, scholars, and seekers from across the world. It was visited and patronised by rulers of both the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire. The Khilji Mosque within the Dargah complex was built by Shadi Khan and Mukri Khan, sons of Sultan Alauddin Khilji. Emperor Babur and his son Humayun are said to have visited the shrine with reverence. Emperor Akbar, known for his inclusive outlook, paid homage here during his reign. Emperor Shah Jahan and his daughter Jahanara Begum, who is buried within the Dargah complex, were among its most devoted royal visitors. Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last Mughal emperor, also held deep spiritual regard for the saint and is believed to have visited the Dargah and offered sacred relics of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) shortly before his capture by the British in 1857.
In modern times, the Dargah continues to be a major spiritual and cultural landmark. Presidents, Prime Ministers, Governors of India, and other political leaders have visited the shrine, particularly during the annual Urs celebrations. International dignitaries and diplomats also make private visits to experience the site’s spiritual atmosphere and historical depth.
More than a heritage monument, the Dargah remains a living institution. Spiritual gatherings (sama‘), qawwali performances, and langar (community meals) continue to be integral practices, welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. The Dargah is maintained and cared for by the direct descendants of Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia (R.A.), known as the Bukhari Syeds, under the traditional Baradari Nizam (system). They have upheld the customs and spiritual teachings of the Chishti tradition across generations.
Alhaj Syed Sufi Ajmal Nizami represents the 38th generation in lineage from Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the 18th generation from Syed Muhammad Imam (R.A.), son of Syed Badruddin Is’haq (R.A.), the son-in-law of Sheikh Baba Farid (R.A.). Syed Badruddin Is’haq came from Ajodhan (present-day Pakpattan, Pakistan) and was brought to Delhi by Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia (R.A.). Through their continued service, the custodians ensure that the Dargah remains not only a symbol of India’s rich Sufi heritage, but also a sanctuary for the soul in an ever-changing world.
