Dewa Sharif Dargah

Some 35 km Northeast of Lucknow, there is located this highly revered Muslim religious site in the district of Barabanki which is popularly known as Dewa Sharif. This sacred tourist attraction around Lucknow is visited by devotees from far and wide. This Mazar is dedicated to Sufi Saint Haji Waris Ali Shah. Through his message of universal love for humanity, he influenced many lives. Throughout the year, this popular tourists site in Lucknow remains flocked with visitors, however, the number of devotees gets doubled up during the time of annual Urs. The occasion marks a fair that runs for a period of 10 days from October - to November. This fair is entitled 'Dewa Mela' which commemorates the saint Haji Waris Ali Shah.

During this entire duration, various cultural programs are organized which also include, All India Mushaira, Manas Sammelan, Kavi Sammelan, Seeratun Nabi, and Music Conference. Not just for cultural buffs, this much-loved fair in Lucknow is also a perfect hideout for sports enthusiasts. Several sports events like football, hockey, badminton, and more are also organized during this time. Besides, the fair also includes hundreds of shops selling handicraft products, household utilities, scrumptious snacks,s, and toys. Above all that, the highlight of this entire cultural event in Lucknow is the cattle market. The fair concludes with heavy fireworks which are a delight to watch.

One unique fact about the Dewa Shareef shrine is that it celebrates the Hindu festival of Holi with great pomp and show. People color themselves with gulaal and the event is a huge affair every year. The tomb of the Sufi saint is enshrined within a splendid monument boasting the fine architecture and beautiful interiors.

History of Dewa Sharif Dargah

Born in the 19th century, Haji Waris Ali Shah belonged to the family of Hussaini Syeds. His father was also a Sufi saint but Waris Ali Shah himself was the founder of the Warsi order of Sufism. He undertook the pilgrimage to Mecca several times in his life and welcomed followers of all faiths and religions into his commune. He preached for peace, divinity, compassion, universal brotherhood, and well-being. He also had followers and believers in countries like Turkey, Berlin, England, etc. After his death, a tomb was set up here in his honor which is now visited by devotees from all over the world.