Haji Ali Dargah, Mumbai

Nestled against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea, Haji Ali Dargah stands as an iconic religious landmark in the bustling city of Mumbai, India. This revered mosque and tomb complex is not only a place of spiritual significance but also a testament to Indo-Islamic architecture. Constructed in 1431, it harbors the mausoleum of Sayed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, a wealthy merchant turned saint.

The Haji Ali Dargah is strategically located on an islet off the coast of Worli in the southern part of Mumbai. It is connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, which becomes submerged during high tide, adding to the mystique of the pilgrimage to this sacred site. This geographical feature makes the journey to the Dargah all the more unique, as visitors time their visit to coincide with the ebbing tide to walk the 500-meter stretch.

The mosque is a brilliant amalgamation of Mughal and Gujarati architecture, with its white domes and minarets standing out against the blue sea. The main structure is adorned with intricate marble latticework, and the sanctum sanctorum houses the tomb of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, draped with rich, green and red chadar (cloth). Devotees of all faiths flock here to offer prayers and seek blessings.

The Haji Ali Dargah is not only a spiritual haven but also a cultural hub. The site is alive with the sounds of Qawwali sessions on Fridays, which draw in crowds eager to experience the soulful Sufi music. The complex also includes facilities for visitors to perform their religious ablutions and offers a sprawling courtyard that accommodates the throngs of pilgrims, especially during festivals and on holy days.