Indo Islamic Heritage
The site is conveniently located approximately 600 meters southeast of the Jor Bagh metro station and around 650 meters northeast of the Safdarjung bus stand on Karbala Road. It is well-connected to major transportation hubs, with Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport being the nearest airport. The closest railway station is New Delhi Railway Station, while the Safdarjung Bus Stand serves as the nearest bus station, ensuring accessibility from various parts of the city.
Brief History: The site is said to contain the sacred footprint of Hazrat Ali and holds immense religious significance for the Shia community. While there is some controversy surrounding the exact time and individual responsible for installing this sacred footprint, it is widely believed to have been done by Qudsia Begum. Local/Traditional Description: The Qadam Sharif is a revered site for Shia devotees. It features a small piece of stone with a carved footprint, believed to belong to Hazrat Ali. This sacred relic attracts pilgrims and worshippers from far and wide, who come to pay their respects. Architectural Style: The architectural style of the structure is Mughal, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and grandeur typical of the Mughal era. Description of the Building/Structure/Site: The Qadam Sharif is enclosed within a beautiful rectangular marble structure, which can be entered from the eastern side through a marble gateway. The internal dimensions of the structure measure approximately 12.25 meters by 7.6 meters. The flat roof is lavishly adorned with intricate decorations. At the heart of the structure lies a black marble tank that houses the Qadam Sharif, accompanied by a sacred sword known as the Shabih of Zulfiqar. Originally, the sacred stone was placed at the center of a marble tank measuring approximately 1.25 meters by 0.64 meters by 0.40 meters deep. This tank was set on a marble platform measuring 2.16 meters by 1.64 meters by 0.80 meters high. In the past, this platform was uncovered and left without a roof. The sanctum is composed of black marble and adorned with numerous gilded, intricately sculpted replicas and artworks representing the mausoleums of Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Hussain. The interiors also feature framed photographs and fragments of cloth and paper inscribed with verses and calligraphy, enhancing the spiritual ambiance of the site. Structure Material and Other Materials: The building is constructed using a combination of marble and brick masonry. Marble is the predominant material, adding to the elegance and sanctity of the structure, while brick masonry provides structural strength. The sanctum and surrounding decorative elements showcase the fine craftsmanship and dedication of the artisans of the Mughal era.
Year of Built: 18th - 19th Century
Address: Dargah Shah-e-Mardan, BK Dutt Colony
Country: India
State: Delhi
District: New Delhi
Pincode: 110021
Longitude: 77 13 0
Latitude: 28 34 58