Commanding reverence through its imposing architecture, this shrine has been a beacon of light in Delhi for generations. The main sanctum houses the blessed tomb, always surrounded by burning incense. Visitors describe an immediate sense of peace upon entering – the weight of worldly concerns lifting from their shoulders. The dargah follows the traditions of Chishti Order, emphasizing love for Allah and service to humanity.
The Saint: Amir Khusro
Amir Khusro is the patron saint of this dargah, associated with the Chishti Order. This shrine has served as a centre of spiritual guidance, healing, and communal service for the Muslim community of Delhi and pilgrims from across the region. Hundreds of devotees visit the dargah throughout the year to offer prayers, seek barakah, and participate in the living tradition of Sufi Islam.
Spiritual Practices and Traditions
Thursday evening qawwali sessions are the living heartbeat of every Chishti dargah. The air fills with devotional music that has remained unchanged for 700 years. Daily langar continues the saint’s tradition of never turning away the hungry.
Chishti shrines particularly welcome non-Muslims — the Order’s founding principle was that love knows no boundaries of faith.
History and Heritage
Established in the 14th Century during the Delhi Sultanate period. expanded by Mughal patronage immediately after the saint’s passing, it has remained an active center of worship.
Key Teachings of the Chishti Order
The Chishti Order teaches that divine love (Ishq-e-Haqiqi) is the supreme path to Allah. Core teachings: sama (sacred music) as spiritual medicine; langar (feeding) as direct worship; sulh-i-kul (peace with all creation) as the mark of the realised soul. The Chishti masters emphasised: “First feed, then preach.”
Adab — Etiquette for This Shrine
Approach with humility and pure intention. Perform two raka’ats of salutation before entering the main shrine area. Cover head and remove shoes. It is sunnah to bring fresh flowers as offering. Recite Al-Fatiha and gift the reward to the saint’s soul. Visit during Urs for maximum spiritual benefit. Refrain from photography inside the sanctum.
Visiting Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the saint at Dargah Hazrat Amir Khusro?
The shrine is dedicated to Amir Khusro, associated with the Chishti Order order. The dargah serves as the final resting place and spiritual seat of the saint, who continues to guide devotees through barakah (spiritual blessing) from the unseen world.
What is the best time to visit Dargah Hazrat Amir Khusro?
Thursday evenings after Maghrib prayer, when the weekly qawwali session creates an atmosphere of divine love. Also recommended during the annual Urs (death anniversary) celebrations.. The annual Urs (death anniversary) of Amir Khusro is the most spiritually charged time to visit, when the shrine is decorated, special prayers are held continuously, and qawwali fills the air from morning to night.
Can non-Muslims visit Dargah Hazrat Amir Khusro?
Yes. Sufi shrines welcome all of humanity regardless of faith. The great Sufi masters themselves taught that divine love recognises no boundary. Come with a respectful heart, modest dress, and an open spirit.
What should I bring when visiting?
A head covering (cap for men, scarf for women). Modest loose-fitting clothing. Optional: fresh flowers (red roses are traditional at most shrines), incense (agarbatti), or a small charitable donation for the poor boxes. Shoes are removed — a small bag for them is useful.
Shrine History
Established in the 14th Century during the Delhi Sultanate period. expanded by Mughal patronage immediately after the saint's passing, it has remained an active center of worship.