Indo Islamic Heritage
The Dargah Qadam Sharif in Paharganj, Delhi, is a small but significant tomb complex built in 1375?1376 CE during the reign of Firoz Shah Tughluq. It houses a mosque, a madrasa (school), and a shrine, collectively known as a dargah. The Nearest Bus Stand- PS Paharganj 11 min walk, The Nearest Metro Station - RK Ashram Marg 19 min walk,, Nearest Railway Station- New Delhi Railway Station Nearest Airport- IGI
Qadam Sharif, also known as the Holy Footprint, is a significant dargah (shrine) located in the heart of Old Delhi. Built by Firoz Shah Tughluq (1309?1388) during his reign in the 14th century, the monument originally served as a tomb for the emperor. However, following the tragic death of his beloved son, Prince Fath Khan, Firoz Shah repurposed the tomb to honor him. This transformation gave the site spiritual and religious significance, especially when Firoz Shah?s spiritual guide, the Sufi saint Makhdum Jahanian Jahan Gasht, brought a sacred relic from Mecca ? a stone bearing the footprint of the Prophet Muhammad, known as "Qadam-e-Rasool." This footprint, placed on Fath Khan's grave, is the reason the site became known as Qadam Sharif, or "Footprint of the Prophet." In addition to the tomb, Firoz Shah constructed a mosque and a madrasah (school), emphasizing his commitment to religious worship and education. The complex was fortified with high battlemented walls, reflecting the Tughluq dynasty's architectural style, combining defensive features with religious structures. This small fortress not only protected the sacred site but also helped maintain the peace and sanctity of the place. Over the centuries, the area surrounding Qadam Sharif has become densely populated with housing and commercial buildings. Despite this, the tomb, several gates, and walls still stand, providing a glimpse into its former grandeur. The mosque and madrasah continue to be active, and the footprint remains an important pilgrimage site for devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace. Qadam Sharif is not only a symbol of Firoz Shah's architectural ambition and devotion to his son but also a testament to the deep cultural and religious heritage of the Tughluq dynasty, blending personal grief, spiritual reverence, and grand architectural vision.
Year of Built: 14th Century
Address: Jhandewalan Rd, Nabi Karim, Sadar Bazaar, New Delhi
Country: India
State: Delhi
District: Central Delhi
Pincode: 110055
Longitude: 77.2028? E
Latitude: 28.6473? N