The Muslim Tomb of Haji Ali is located on an small islet off the coast of worli in Mumbai. It is the dominant landmark of the Mumbai city. Devotees irrespective of their religion, caste and creed throng to Dargah to seek blessings of the Lord. This 400 years old shrine also has the historical significance which is reflected through its meaningful architecture and peaceful settings. It is popular belief that whosoever comes here never goes back empty handed. A number of devotees come here for thanksgiving. It is among the most frequently pilgrimage sites in India.
History of Haji Ali:
There are many legends related to the construction of Haji Ali. According to one legend - dargah -Haji Ali was built in 1431 by the prosperous Muslim businessman named Haji Ali was renounced the material world before making a visit to the pilgrimage Mecca. It is a popular belief that Haji Ali died on his way to Mecca and the casket carrying his body floated back to the sea coast of Mumbai, where his devotees built dargah.
Attractions of Haji Ali Mosque :
The edifice is the excellent form of Indo- Islamic architecture standing on the island. It is the most important tourists spot for the tourists coming on the pilgrimage tour to India. Located beautifully amidst the sea, Haji Ali is a striking white washed structure that occupies the total area of 4,500 meters with the single minrate that is 85 feet tall. The mosque is connected to the mainland with a 500 yards narrow causeway jutting into the Arabian Sea. The mosque can only be reached during the low tide as the narrow concrete pathway leading to the shrine is submerged into the water during the high tide and monsoon season.
The white washed mosque has a marble courtyard housing the central shrine. The tomb within the mosque is covered by the richly brocade red and green chaddar along with the exquisite silver flame adding grandeur to the structure. As you step inside the you will come across the semi circular tomb where the body sufi saint – Haji Ali lie in peace. The top of the tomb is covered with the zari cloth like in all dargahs. The devotees offer prayers by touching their forehead and lips to the cloth. You are required to remove the shoes before entering the shrine. Ladies are not allowed to touch the main shrine as they have have a separate room for their prayers.
The marble pillars inside the main hall are embellished with multi colored mirrors in blue, green, and yellow. The ninety nine names of Allah are also written on these pillars. The courtyard of the mosque is surrounded by refreshment stalls. Haji Ali is the ideal spot for catching the cool sea breeze away from the chaos of city life. The best time to visit Dargah is on Fridays or Thursday evenings.
Aparana Chauhan
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