Nagore Dargah Shariff — Attraction in Tamil Nadu

Nagore Dargah (also called Nagoor Dargah or Syed Shahul Hameed Dargah or Nagore Andavar dargah) is a dargah built over the tomb of the Sufi saint Shahul Hameed (1490–1579 CE).[1] It is located in Nagore, a coastal town in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The outer doors of the dargah are kept open always, while the internal doors are open from 4:00 am to 06:00 am and from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. On Fridays, the doors are additionally kept open between 12:00 pm and 2:30 pm. Shahul Hamid is believed to have performed many miracles in Nagore, and cured the physical affliction of king Achuthappa Nayak, a 16th-century Hindu ruler of Thanjavur. He is locally referred to as Nagore Andavar, meaning the "Ruler of Nagore" and Qadir wali baba. Nagore dargah as it stands now, is believed to have been built by ardent devotees of Shahul Hamid, with major contribution from Hindus. There are five minarets in the dargah, with the Hindu Maratha ruler of Thanjavur Pratap Singh (1739–1763 CE), building the tallest minaret. The dargah is a major pilgrimage centre that attracts pilgrims from both sufi Islam and Hinduism, symbolizing peaceful coexistence

The central part of the dargah is the tomb of the saint Shahul Hamid, which is approached through seven thresholds. Four of these doorways are made of silver and the remaining three of gold. The other tombs in the shrines are the ones for Shahul’s grandson Hassan Alaihis Salam and Abdel Khader Gilani, each located in different chambers. The adjoining portion of the complex is called Peer Mandap, the Trusty’s place of fasting during the annual festival. A mosque is located next to the Peer Mandap, where daily prayers are offered.

Shifa Gunta is a holy tank with stepped sides, located within the precincts of the dargah. As per a local legend, Shahul Hamid is believed to have brought an iron chain with him to Nagore to bind himself during severe austerities. The distinctive chain is identified as the one hanging from the ceiling above the tomb of Yusuf. Vanjur shrine and Silladi shrine, located outside the main complex, are associated with the Nagore Dargah. The Vanjur shrine is an underground cave located 2 km (1.2 mi) north of the main complex at Nagore. It is the place where Shahul is believed to have meditated for 40 days. Silladi shrine is located 1 km (0.62 mi) towards the east of main complex, facing the Bay of Bengal, where Shahul is believed to have offered daily prayers.

There are similar shrines built in Shahul Hamid’s honour in Penang (Malaysia) and Singapore. The Singapore dargah, built during 1827, has been declared a national monument. These two shrines along with the Masjid Jamae at Chulia in Singapore and the Keramat Data Koya in Penang are influenced by the architectural style of...

Hazrath Shahul Hameed, popularly known as Nagore Nayagam, was born on 10th November 1504 that is 3rd Jamadiyul Aakhir 910 Hijri in a town called Manikapur located 96 Kilometers away from Allahabad in UP, North India.

He was born to Janab Hasan Quddos and Bibi Fatima. He began learning Arabic at the age of 8 and demonstrated exceptional in Arabic language.

He went to Gwalior to gain spiritual education, from Hazrat Syed Mohammad Ghouz Sahib, where he studied for 7 years. On gaining successful spiritual education, he departed with 440 fellow students and travelled to Makkah.

During his journey, Nagore Nayagam prayed fervently for those in need. While traveling towards Makkah, he stopped in Lahore and met Hazrat Nooruddin Sahib, a wealthy man who expressed his concerns about his lack of a son. Nagore Nayagam prayed to Allah for him, and as a result, Hazrat Nooruddin Sahib was blessed with a son, Muhammad Yusuf Sahib.

Later, Nagore Nayagam, along with his fellow students, traveled to Sri Lanka, Kayalpattinam, Keezakarai, and Tenkasi, continuing his spiritual mission. Eventually, he arrived in Thanjavur, where he became renowned for his spiritual abilities.

During his time in Thanjavur, King Achuthappa Nayak was suffering from an incurable disease. The king's ministers sought the help of Nagore Nayagam, who prayed for the king's recovery. The king's illness was miraculously cured, and, through his prayers, the king was also blessed with a son. Grateful for his assistance, the king granted him 30 acres of coastal land, which became persent day Nagore.

Nagore Nayagam later observed two significant 40-day fasts. The first was at Vanjoor, 2 kilometers from Nagore, where he sat in a pit covered with wooden planks. The second fast was at the Chilladi mosque on the coast of Nagore. These places are now significant places of visit in this region.

Nagore Nayagam passed away on 10th November 1570 that is 12th Jamadiyul Aakhir 978 Hijri at the age of 68 in Nagore, where he is attaining everlasting rest. The death anniversary is commemorated with the Kanduri Festival, celebrated annually in Nagore. This festival exemplifies religious harmony, attracting people of all faiths, including Muslims, Hindus...

Nagore Dargah Shariff, also known as Nagore Dargah, is a revered Sufi shrine located in Nagore, a small town in the Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu, India. The Dargah is dedicated to the 16th-century Sufi saint Hazrath Nagore Shahul Hameed, also known as Shahul Hameed Nagoori.

Key Features Minaret: The Dargah features a striking minaret, which is a prominent landmark in the town. Architecture: The shrine complex showcases a blend of Islamic and Indian architectural styles, with intricate carvings, arches, and domes. Religious Significance: Nagore Dargah Shariff is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims, attracting devotees from all over the world. Festivals: The Dargah celebrates various festivals, including the annual Kandoori Urs, which commemorates the saint's death anniversary.

History The Nagore Dargah was built in the 16th century, and over time, it has undergone several renovations and expansions. The shrine is believed to contain the tomb of Hazrath Nagore Shahul Hameed, who was a renowned Sufi saint and mystic.

Visitor Information Timings: The Dargah is open for visitors from dawn to dusk. Dress Code: Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering their heads and shoulders as a mark of respect. Photography: Photography is allowed, but permission may be required for certain areas or events.

Nagore Dargah Shariff is a significant cultural and religious landmark, attracting visitors from diverse backgrounds. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the region's heritage.

Tips Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Dargah is during the morning or evening prayers, when the atmosphere is serene and peaceful. Respect Local Customs: Visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions, including removing their shoes before entering the shrine. Guided Tours: Guided tours are available, which can provide valuable insights into the history and significance...