Let's Take You Out On A Sufi Walk, Shall We? Read On

Delhi’s Sufi soul has always been associated with the Dargah of Hazrat Nizamuddin and everything that surrounds that shrine. But in that process we often seem to overlook Mehrauli, the oldest settlement in Delhi which was also the seat of the oldest Sufi Shrines. Sufism of Delhi originated here and this is where you need to go to experience it - read on!

A Musical Walk at Dargah Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki

The most prominent Sufi shrine in Mehrauli is that of Hazrat Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki who was a disciple of the much-revered Moinuddin Chisti of Ajmer. Bakhtiyar Kaki was not only a saint but a cynosure of music himself. He died an extraordinary death during a musical trance in the month of Rabi-ul-Awwal. 
And hence what will strike you the most is the loudly blaring Sufi music as soon as you enter the compound. The best time to capture musical celebrations and performances in the dargah is during the Islamic month of Rabi-ul-Awwal. Regular Qawwali shows are organized every evening on Thursdays and Fridays. There is no entry fee or permission required to participate here.

Exploring the Obscure Ashiq Allah Dargah

Another important Dargah nearby is the Ashiq Allah Dargah. Originating from the 13th century, it’s located at the end of Mehrauli village amidst the jungles of Sanjay Van and closer to the ruins of Lal Kot, the ancient fort of the Rajputs. Keeping the true Sufi traditions of altruism alive, this Dargah organizes a langar every day. 
You realize that sense of containment and serenity when you walk through the narrow alleys of Mehrauli where the past is seamlessly juxtaposed with the present. You see it in the faces of carefree children swimming in the stagnant waters of Gandhak ki Baoli, you sense it as you overlook the skyline dominated with the Qutub Minar!

Reaching Mehrauli | You can either reach the Mehrauli Bus Terminus or the Qutub Minar Metro Station. It is a vast area and one day may not be enough, especially if you want to absorb the real Sufi experience. 
Head on over to explore away!