NEW DELHI: Union minister of minority affairs Kiren Rijiju visited the revered Ajmer Sharif Dargah on Saturday to present a ceremonial “chadar” on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The gesture, part of the annual Urs celebrations of 13th-century Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, was described by Rijiju as a symbol of “unity and brotherhood.”
Minister shared the moments on social media platform X and wrote, “It’s a reflection of deep respect for India’s rich spiritual heritage and the enduring message of harmony and compassion.”
Speaking before the offering, Rijiju emphasised the significance of the visit. He said, “This chadar represents PM Modi’s message of peace, harmony, and unity. The dargah is a place where people of all faiths come together, reinforcing the idea of a united India.”
“We are fortunate to come here. We have brought the chadar on behalf of PM Modi. I also read the message of PM Modi that we all, with an intent of brotherhood, will work for our society, country, and world peace. We sought blessings here”, the minister added.
Tradition of harmony
Since assuming office, PM Modi has maintained the tradition of sending a ‘chadar’ to the Ajmer Sharif Dargah annually. This marks the 11th time the Prime Minister has participated in this observance, underscoring its importance as a bridge of cultural and religious solidarity.
In a message delivered at the shrine, Rijiju articulated the government’s commitment to fostering a peaceful and inclusive society, saying, “On this auspicious occasion of Urs, we hope for a harmonious atmosphere in the country. Everyone, regardless of religion, is welcome at the dargah. This symbolizes the diversity and unity of our nation.”
The event drew tens of thousands of pilgrims from across the country and beyond, all commemorating the saint’s teachings of love, compassion, and equality.
Rijiju also highlighted ongoing efforts to simplify and improve the pilgrimage experience for the lakhs who visit the shrine annually during Urs. He stated, “The government is committed to ensuring that visitors face no difficulties during their spiritual journey. Steps are being taken to make the process smoother and more accessible.”
The minister’s visit to the Ajmer Sharif Dargah followed his prayers at the Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah in Delhi.
BJP minority morcha president Jamal Siddiqui, who accompanied Rijiju, reiterated PM Modi’s vision. He said, “This offering is a message for peace, tolerance, and unity in a diverse India.”
The visit occurred amid a backdrop of legal and ideological challenges. When asked about a petition claiming that the dargah was built over a Shiva temple, Rijiju distanced himself from the controversy, reiterating his purpose at the shrine, “I am here to offer chadar and carry forward the Prime Minister’s message of harmony. My visit is not to engage in disputes but to uphold the spirit of unity.”
Last year, during the 812th Urs, the ‘chadar’ was presented to the shrine by then Union minister Smriti Irani and Jamal Siddiqui, along with a delegation representing the Muslim community, on behalf of the Prime Minister.
