Healing, Harmony, and History: The Enduring Significance of Bitho Sharif Dargah in Bihar

By Syed Amjad Hussain, New Age Islam 20 December 2024 Bitho Sharif Dargah Is A Sacred Sufi Shrine In Gaya, Bihar. It Is Famous For Miracles Of Healing, Communal Harmony, And Spiritual Heritage. Established By Hazrat Makhdoom Syed Shah Durwesh Ashraf, This Place Unites Faiths, Offering Hope, Peace, And Solace. Main Points: 1. It was established by Hazrat Makhdoom Syed Shah Durwesh Ashraf in 1443 AD and represents centuries of spiritual heritage and social reform. 2. The shrine is said to cure incurable diseases and dispel supernatural forces, attracting devotees who are seeking solace and healing. 3. A symbol of Hindu-Muslim unity, a Dargah embodies the syncretic culture of India and fosters communal harmony through shared worship and tradition. 4. The Urs commemorates Hazrat Makhdoom's legacy with rituals, Qawwalis, and the display of sacred relics, attracting thousands of devotees. 5. The Dargah houses sacred tombs, relics, and the perpetual lamp, making it both a spiritual haven and an architectural wonder. ——— Introduction Bitho Sharif Dargah is a centuries-old spiritual and historical site located in the Kandi Panchayat of Gaya district, Bihar. Thousands of visitors visit this place every year. This is a shrine dedicated to Hazrat Makhdoom Syed Shah Durwesh Ashraf Rahmatullah Alaih, which is more than just a place of religiosity. It also serves as a beacon of hope, healing, and community harmony. Replete with miracles and its cultural legacy, the shrine attracts people from all walks of life, uniting individuals across religious divides. History and Origins The Dargah traces its roots back to the year 847 Hijri (1443 AD), when Hazrat Makhdoom Syed Shah Durwesh Ashraf, a highly revered Sufi saint, established a khanqah or spiritual retreat in Bitho Sharif. It is believed that the saint hailed from Iran and spent his entire life spreading the message of love, peace, and spirituality. Hazrat Makhdoom played a significant role in eradicating ignorance and social evils from the region, bringing forth the principles of equality and humanity. According to local legend, the village, initially called Baithu Sharif, was renamed Bitho Sharif after Hazrat Makhdoom settled there and began his teachings. The Khanqah and the Dargah became sanctuaries for those seeking spiritual direction. Over time, the Dargah transformed into the largest and oldest shrine in Magadha, attracting thousands of pilgrims annually. It is a strong representation of India's syncretic culture, where Hindus and Muslims worship together and find peace. A Centre for Healing and Miracles Bitho Sharif Dargah is believed to possess healing powers. People come here seeking relief from diseases and supernatural afflictions. It is said that prayers offered here can cure ailments that modern medicine cannot and dispel demonic forces. Testimonials from devotees highlight the transformative impact of visiting the shrine. For instance, Kaila Devi, who has been visiting for over a decade, narrates that her life was saved when she visited Baba's shrine. Similarly, the daughter of Dilip Sav, who had been suffering from mysterious ailments, was miraculously cured after their visit. Now, she leads a prosperous life and holds a respected position. Such accounts reaffirm the faith of devotees who believe that no one leaves the Dargah disappointed. According to Sajjada Nasheen Syed Shah Arbab Ashraf, the custodian of the shrine, the Dargah welcomes people of all religions, offering them a place to seek solace and healing. "This is the court of the Sufis, where pain and suffering are alleviated through prayers and blessings," he explains. Annual Urs Celebrations The Dargah’s annual calendar is marked by the Urs, the death anniversary of Hazrat Makhdoom. The 542nd Urs was celebrated this year between March 2 and March 6, attracting thousands of devotees from various parts of India and neighbouring Nepal. The Urs commenced with the ritual washing of the shrine (Ghusl-Sharif) and the application of sandalwood paste. Rose water was used to clean the tomb, followed by the ceremonial spreading of sheets (Chadar) by the custodians of the Dargah. Devotees were also treated to the rare sight of sacred relics, including Hazrat Makhdoom's turban, garment (Khirka), and Tasbih (rosary). During the five-day event, several programmes related to religion and culture were organised, including Quran recitations, Qawwali performances, and communal feasts known as Langar. The Qul Sharif marked the conclusion of the Urs. Cultural and Communal Harmony One of the Dargah’s most striking aspects is its role in fostering communal harmony. For centuries, Hindus and Muslims have worshipped together at the shrine, sharing a sense of spirituality and humanity. The Dargah reflects the Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb, an ethos celebrating unity amidst diversity. Locals narrate tales of Hazrat Makhdoom’s mercy and miracles, such as healing the mad daughter of a local king through his prayers. Such stories have crossed all religious boundaries, attracting people of all faiths to the shrine. Even political leaders acknowledge the shrine’s importance. Before every assembly election, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar visits the Dargah, offering sheets in hope of receiving blessings for the welfare of the state. If he cannot attend, his followers ensure the ritual is upheld. Architectural Marvels and Sacred Relics The Dargah complex is an architectural marvel, comprising significant structures and relics. The Samakhana, a grand hall for congregations, hosts Qawwali performances and sermons during the Urs. The Mazar Sharif, located along the banks of the Falgu River, houses the tombs of Hazrat Makhdoom, his wife Hazrat Bibi Jan Malak, and other saints from his family. Nearby lies the Imli Dargah, a serene cemetery where notable Sufi saints, including Hazrat Makhdoom Ghulam Mustafa and Hazrat Ghulam Rasool, are buried. One of the treasured artefacts preserved at the Dargah is an old lamp gifted to Hazrat Makhdoom Sultan Syed Ashraf Jahangir Simnani Kichhauchvi. Even today, this lamp remains lit every evening, symbolising the eternal glow of inspiration and enlightenment. Spiritual Practices and Devotee Experiences Devotees visiting the Dargah often engage in various spiritual practices, including offering prayers, reciting the Quran, and lighting candles at the sacred lamp. Many choose to stay for several days, seeking healing and spiritual rejuvenation. Visitors describe a profound sense of peace and connection at the shrine. Some walk barefoot around the Dargah, while others sit in silent prayer. Emotions run high as devotees cry or fall unconscious in displays of overwhelming faith. Locals suggest that the best time to visit the shrine is after 5 p.m., when the atmosphere becomes particularly serene. Many believe their wishes are fulfilled during this time, leaving the Dargah with renewed hope and happiness. A Legacy of Sufi Teachings Hazrat Makhdoom’s teachings continue to resonate in all the Dargah’s activities. His emphasis on love, equality, and humanity remains central to the shrine’s mission. The Dargah serves as a platform for spreading messages of social reform, encouraging people to overcome prejudices and embrace compassion. During the Urs, programmes like Quran recitations, sermons, and Qawwalis highlight these teachings. Devotees are reminded of Sufi values such as humility, generosity, and service to others, reinforcing the shrine’s role as a spiritual and cultural hub. Conclusion Bitho Sharif Dargah is not just a place of worship; it is a sanctuary of faith, healing, and unity. Its legacy as a centre of Sufi spirituality and communal harmony continues to inspire generations of devotees. From miraculous healings to the celebration of shared traditions, the dargah stands as a testament to the power of faith and the unifying force of spirituality. As the echoes of Qawwalis fill its sacred halls, Bitho Sharif Dargah remains a beacon of hope for all who seek solace, healing, and connection. ---- Syed Amjad Hussain is an author and Independent research scholar on Sufism and Islam. He is currently working on his book 'Bihar Aur Sufivad', based on the history of Sufism in Bihar. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/interfaith-dialogue/healing-harmony-history-bitho-dargah-bihar/d/134082 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism