Indo Islamic Heritage
Mazar Hazrat Sayyedi Tajushariah, also known as Dargah Tajush Shariah or Khanqah-e-Tajush Shariah, is a revered Sufi shrine in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, dedicated to Mufti Mohammad Akhtar Raza Khan Qadiri (1943–2018), a prominent Barelvi scholar and spiritual leader titled Tajush Shariah. It serves as a center for Islamic learning and devotion, attracting millions of followers annually, particularly during his Urs observance.
Historical Background and Year Built Established in 2018 following the passing of Mufti Akhtar Raza Khan on July 20, 2018, the mazar functions as both a tomb and a khanqah (spiritual hospice). Akhtar Raza Khan, born on November 23, 1943, in Muhallah Saudagaran, Bareilly, was a direct descendant of Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi (Ala Hazrat), the founder of the Barelvi movement. He was educated at Madrasa Manzar-e-Islam and Islamia Inter College in Bareilly, later founding Jami'atur Raza (Centre of Islamic Studies) in 2000 to promote traditional Sunni scholarship. Recognized as the Grand Mufti of India by his followers and ranked 22nd among the world's most influential Muslims in 2014–15, he authored numerous works in Arabic, including Al-Mawahib al-Rizwiyyah Fi al-Fatawa al-Azhariya and Azhar al-Fatawa. The shrine was promptly constructed post his death to honor his legacy, with his funeral drawing over a million attendees and global viewership exceeding 12.5 million. Architectural and Spiritual Significance As a modest yet spiritually vibrant local mosque and shrine, Mazar Hazrat Sayyedi Tajushariah embodies Barelvi traditions of devotion, featuring spaces for prayer, Quranic recitation, and scholarly gatherings. It hosts the annual Urs-e-Tajush Shariah, typically in late May or June per the Islamic calendar (e.g., May 26–27 in recent years), drawing clerics and devotees from countries like the USA, UK, South Africa, and UAE. The site emphasizes anti-extremism, aligning with fatwas issued under Akhtar Raza Khan against groups like ISIS and the Taliban. It remains a focal point for zikr (remembrance of God), fatawa (legal opinions), and community langar (communal meals), continuing the Bareilly tradition of accessible Sufi spirituality without ornate grandeur.
Year of Built: 2018
Address: 9C65+Q93, Bhoor, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh 243003
Country: India
State: Uttar Pradesh
District: Bareilly
Pincode: 243003
Longitude: 79.430°E
Latitude: 28.368°N