Indo Islamic Heritage
Nagore Dargah Shariff is a revered Sufi shrine and mosque located in Nagore, Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu. Built over the tomb of the 16th-century saint Hazrat Syed Abdul Qadir Shahul Hamid, the dargah is a major spiritual and pilgrimage centre attracting devotees from across India and beyond. Known for its five distinctive minarets, golden dome, and communal harmony, the shrine welcomes visitors of all faiths. It hosts daily prayers, special observances during Ramadan and Eid, and the famous 14-day Kanduri festival commemorating the saint’s death anniversary. Nagore Dargah remains a symbol of faith, unity, and inter-religious respect.
Nagore Dargah Shariff, also known simply as Nagore Dargah or Hazrat Syed Shahul Hamid Dargah, is one of South India’s most significant Islamic shrines. It is located in Nagore, a coastal town in Nagapattinam district, Tamil Nadu (PIN 611002), and attracts millions of pilgrims regardless of creed or background. The shrine is built over the tomb of Hazrat Syed Abdul Qadir Shahul Hamid, a Sufi saint (1490–1579 CE) whose spiritual legacy is revered locally as “Nagore Andavar” (the “Lord of Nagore”). According to tradition, Shahul Hamid performed numerous acts of blessing and healing in the area, gaining widespread respect among the local population. Architecture & Layout The dargah complex features Indo-Islamic architectural elements with one large golden dome, several tomb chambers, and a series of minarets — five in total — with the tallest being about 131 feet high, constructed under the patronage of the Maratha ruler Pratap Singh of Thanjavur in the 18th century. Within the compound, a sacred water tank called the Shifa Gunta is considered holy; pilgrims often take a ceremonial dip here, and rituals often blend cultural elements unique to this region. Religious Activities Nagore Dargah functions as both a mosque and a dargah, with regular Islamic prayers including the five daily salah (prayers) and special congregational prayers. Fridays and Islamic observances see large gatherings. The site is also associated with various rituals connected to Sufi practice, remembrance, and spiritual blessing. Kanduri Festival The most famous annual event at the shrine is the Kanduri festival — a 14-day commemoration of Shahul Hamid’s urs (death anniversary) attracting devotees from far and wide. The festival includes flag-hoisting ceremonies, chariot processions, prayers, music, and communal feasts. It reflects a unique blend of devotional styles, with some rituals showing local cultural influences. Inter-Religious Harmony Nagore Dargah Shariff is noted regionally for its spirit of communal harmony: people of different religious backgrounds, including Hindus and Christians, are known to visit and offer respects. This inclusivity has made the shrine a cultural symbol of unity in the region. Historical Context The shrine’s origins date back to the late 16th century, soon after the death of Shahul Hamid. Though exact construction records are absent, the tradition holds that early devotees — including Hindu patrons — were instrumental in developing the shrine. Over subsequent centuries, especially in the 18th century, rulers such as the Marathas contributed significantly to its expansion. Nagore Dargah continues to be managed by a committee and has maintained its importance through centuries of religious and social change. It remains a key centre for Sufi spirituality and pilgrimage in South India.
Year of Built: 16th century (built over the saint’s tomb in the late 1500s)
Address: 19, Mohideen Palli Street, Manaradi Line, Nagore, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu
Country: India
State: Tamil Nadu
District: Nagapattinam
Pincode: 611002
Longitude: 79.8439° E (approx.)
Latitude: 10.8153° N (approx.)