Dargah of Hazrat Sarmad: A Shrine of Love and Unity in Old Delhi
By Sahil Razvi, New Age Islam
10 September 2024
Hazrat Sarmad Shaheed’s Dargah in Old Delhi Symbolizes Interfaith Unity and Spiritual Devotion. A Persian-Armenian Mystic, Sarmad’s Message of Love and Defiance Against Orthodoxy Continues to Inspire Visitors from All Backgrounds. Despite Its Modest Size, The Shrine Remains a Place of Peace, Attracting People Seeking Solace and Blessings.
Main Points:
1. Hazrat Sarmad Shaheed’s Dargah is located between Jama Masjid and Meena Bazaar in Old Delhi.
2. Sarmad, a Persian-Armenian Jewish poet and mystic, became a 'naked fakir' after embracing Islam.
3. His shrine attracts people of all faiths for blessings and peace.
4. Sarmad’s refusal to complete the Kalma led to his execution under Aurangzeb's rule.
5. Today, his Dargah symbolizes love, unity, and spiritual healing.
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"A madman is never at fault,
The fault lies within you, for you have never truly loved."
~Hazrat Sarmad Shaheed
(Ek Pagal Insan Ki Koi Galati Nahin Hoti
Kami Tumme Hai Ki Tumne Ab Tak Pyaar Nahin Kiya)
India is home to thousands of Dargahs (shrines) where people from all religions and castes come to express their devotion. These Dargahs are a part of our cultural heritage. The faith in Sufi saints is not limited to just one community; peace-loving people from across India draw inspiration from these saints. One such Dargah is that of Hazrat Sarmad Shaheed, who, in his lifetime, spread the message of love and peace, and even after his death, his Dargah continues to radiate that message.
Location and Unique Features of the Dargah
The Dargah of Hazrat Sarmad Shaheed is situated between Jama Masjid and Meena Bazaar in Old Delhi. Unlike other famous Dargahs, this one does not boast a grand dome or marble structure. Instead, the small courtyard, shaded by a large neem tree and featuring a Mughal-era well, provides a homely atmosphere. Surrounding the Dargah are various small stalls and shops, such as Imran’s tea shop, Sonic CD Store, Raza Bookshop, and Kutubkhana Sarmadi, where perfumes, talismans, and religious literature are sold. Additionally, there’s a small office of Al Makkah Tours and Travels, and a clinic called ‘Rahat Open Surgery,’ where a local healer claims to cure diseases like cancer and diabetes.
Devotees’ Experiences
People from all walks of life and religious backgrounds visit Hazrat Sarmad's Dargah. One such devotee, Sushila, a Hindu, shares her experience: "I've been coming here for many years. Every time I visit, I feel a sense of peace, and my prayers are answered. My family is always happy, and even when I’m not feeling up to it, I still find myself coming here to seek solace."
Who Was Hazrat Sarmad Shaheed?
Hazrat Sarmad Shaheed, also known as the 'Naked Fakir,' was born around 1590 in the city of Kashan, Iran. There isn’t much information about his family or education, but it is known that he became a merchant and gained knowledge of mystical traditions and Persian-Arabic poetry. He eventually converted to Islam and arrived in the port city of Thatta (in present-day Sindh) in 1632. There, he met a young Hindu boy named Abhai Chand, and they developed a deep mutual bond. Soon after, Sarmad abandoned his trade and became a naked fakir (ascetic).
The Martyrdom of Sarmad
During the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, Sarmad was summoned for questioning, particularly regarding a prophecy he had made about Dara Shikoh becoming the emperor. When reminded of his earlier prediction, Sarmad responded, "I never said he would be the emperor of this world; I spoke of the next world where he would reign." Aurangzeb then asked Sarmad to recite the full Kalma (La Ilahi ill’Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah – meaning "There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger"). However, Sarmad only uttered "La Ilaha" (There is no god), refusing to complete the phrase. The Qazi (judge) loudly declared to the people, "Look, this fakir denies the existence of God. He is a heretic!" Sarmad was sentenced to death, dragged through the streets, and beheaded.
It is said that after his beheading, Sarmad’s body picked up his severed head and began dancing, completing the full Kalma as he danced. His soul had united with his Creator. Just as he was about to enter Jama Masjid, a voice from the nearby shrine of Hazrat Hare Bhare Shah called out to him, and Sarmad, carrying his head, made his way to the shrine, where he fell and was buried.
Significance of the Dargah
Even today, people from all faiths visit Hazrat Sarmad Shaheed’s Dargah to seek blessings and find peace. His Dargah is not just a place of religious significance but a beacon of love and unity, where people from different communities come together to find solace and spiritual fulfilment.
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Sahil Razvi is an author and research scholar specialising in Sufism and history. He is an alumnus of Jamia Millia Islamia.
URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-personalities/dargah-hazrat-sarmad-shrine-love-unity/d/133169
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