Janmashtami at a dargah: Devotees flock to Rajasthan shrine; Hindus and Muslims celebrate centuries-old tradition together

Jaipur: In Narhar town of Rajasthan's Jhunjhunu district, Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated with a unique twist - at a dargah.The shrine of Sharif Hazrat Hajib Shakarbar, the 14th-century dargah has been a symbol of Hindu-Muslim brotherhood for centuries. "On Janmashtami, mostly Hindu devotees organise a procession and members of the Muslim community welcome them with garlands," said Kareem Pir, a khadim (hereditary custodian or caretaker) at the dargah.This year, the three-day festivities began Friday, drawing devotees, especially newlyweds, from across India. The festivities at the shrine, also called Shakkar Baba ki Dargah, feature dramas, bhajans, qawwalis and devotional programmes dedicated to Lord Krishna."One of the biggest features of this dargah is that people of all religions have the right to worship here, according to their methods. A Hindu family started the Janmashtami fair many years ago and, since then, the tradition has continued," Khaleel Budhana, the dargah committee chairman, told TOI. "Newlyweds not only visit the dargah for blessings but also to pray for a child."A notable tradition involves residents offering curd as "prasad" whenever a cow or buffalo gives birth.

Shankar Singh, a local, said, "As a symbol of communal harmony, a huge fair has been held here on Janmashtami since time immemorial."The tradition has been maintained by the Khadim and Inzamiya Committee of the dargah for centuries. Mohammad Sadiq, a local, said, "It is difficult to remember when and how it all started. We have heard many stories from our grandparents."