Indo Islamic Heritage

Kantit Sharif

Kantit Sharif: A Symbol of Communal Harmony and Spiritual Devotion The Kantit Sharif Dargah, located in Kantit, Uttar Pradesh, is a sacred mausoleum dedicated to Sayyad Khwaja Ismail Chisti Rahmatullah Alaih, the nephew of Khwaja Garib Nawaz of Ajmer. Nearest Bus Station: Mirzapur Bus Station (approx. 4 km) Nearest Railway Station: Mirzapur Junction (approx. 5 km) Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi (approx. 65 km)

The Kantit Sharif Dargah, located in Kantit, Uttar Pradesh, is a sacred mausoleum dedicated to Sayyad Khwaja Ismail Chisti Rahmatullah Alaih, the nephew of Khwaja Garib Nawaz of Ajmer. Known as a beacon of Hindu-Muslim unity, this revered shrine holds deep spiritual and cultural significance. Historical Significance Sayyad Khwaja Ismail Chisti (R.A.) was a prominent Sufi saint whose teachings emphasized love, peace, and communal harmony. Following in the footsteps of his illustrious uncle, Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, he worked tirelessly for the welfare of the people, earning immense respect and devotion. Historically, Khwaja Sahib is credited with influencing the policies of the oppressive rulers, Daanav Rai and Dhama Rai, two Gaharwar Rajput kings. Through his spiritual wisdom and miraculous interventions, he transformed their governance into one focused on public welfare, garnering widespread admiration. For devotees unable to visit Ajmer Sharif due to distance, Kantit Sharif offers a similar sense of spiritual fulfillment. It is widely believed that prayers made here are as potent as those made at the Mazaar of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti in Ajmer. One of the most remarkable features of Kantit Sharif is the Hindu-Muslim unity it fosters. The first chaader (offering sheet) at the shrine is presented by a Hindu member of the Kasera family from Mirzapur, a tradition that has been followed for generations. Only after this offering does the annual Urs officially commence. During the Urs, held on the 5th, 6th, and 7th days of Rajab (Islamic calendar), thousands of devotees from all communities gather to offer prayers, present chaaders, and distribute food such as halwa, zarda, and sheernee among the poor and needy. Kantit Sharif stands as a powerful symbol of communal integrity, uniting people from all walks of life. The Dargah?s traditions emphasize that spirituality transcends religion, caste, and creed. Its long-standing practices of inclusivity and service to humanity continue to inspire visitors, making it a spiritual haven in Uttar Pradesh. For those seeking solace, blessings, or simply a deeper understanding of India?s rich Sufi heritage, a visit to Kantit Sharif Dargah is both a spiritual and cultural journey.

Year of Built: 18th Century

Address: 5G58+FM2, Vindhyachal, Mirzapur-cum-Vindhyachal, Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh 231307

Country: India

State: Uttar Pradesh

District: Mirzapur

Pincode: 231307

Longitude: 82.5698? E

Latitude: 25.1469? N