Discover Mumbais Scenic Island Mosque At The Haji Ali Dargah
Ideally situated on a captivating islet off the coast of Worli in Mumbai lies one of the countrys finest specimens of Indian Islamic architecture
. As a monumental structure that is now perceived as one of the citys most prominent landmarks the Haji Ali Dargah mosque and tomb complex is connected to the mainland by a 0.6 mile long causeway. Built as far back as the 1430s, the mosque attracts nearly 40,000 worshippers on the holy days of Thursday and Friday each week. Constructed in honor of famed tradesman Sayyed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari the shrine has been the cause and keeper of many local legends associated with its namesake. The tomb of the late Sayed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, the patron saint of the mosque is contained within the structure that is frequented by many a visitor irrespective of faith or creed. The blessings of the celebrated saint can be secured by visiting the dargah where his remains are enshrined as devotional hymns dubbed Qawwali are performed by Sufi musicians in tribute and supplication.
The high point of a visit to the Haji Ali Dargah is of course touring the whitewashed structure that stretches across 4500m2 as an elegant reminder of the timeless splendor of Indian Islamic architecture. A 26-meter high tower is also part of the landscape while an exquisite marble courtyard is located behind the mosques elaborately decorated edifice. The main shrine is situated within this courtyard whereas the main hall of the mosque is elegantly embellished with marble columns decked in colorful mirror and glass work. Kaleidoscopic designs intermingle with traditional Arabic motifs in this area where yellow, blue and green glass pieces spell out the hundred names of Allah.
The tomb of Sayyed Peer Haji Ali Shah Bukhari features on the other hand a richly brocaded cover sheet in green and red while marble columns and a silver frame support the structure. Separate prayer rooms for male and female devotees are also found here as in most Islamic religious institutions.
It is best to visit the mosque during low tide season when the islet is accessible and the rock on which the mosque is built is beautifully exposed within an atmosphere thick in sea breeze. The mosque is a curious sight during high tide when the rising sea level creates the impression of a submerged mosque floating on the ocean.
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