Hussain Tekri Dargah in Madhya Pradesh exemplifies Hindu-Muslim unity through its history and events. Originating from a divine vision, it hosts significant rituals for both communities, including Holi festivities and exorcisms. The site underscores the universal role of dargahs in promoting interfaith harmony and societal peace.
By Sahil Razvi
India boasts numerous dargahs (shrines) that cater to people of all religions and castes. These sacred places are exemplary of Hindu-Muslim unity, where religious distinctions dissolve and people from diverse backgrounds come together. Hussain Tekri Dargah, situated 33 kilometres from Javra in Ratlam district, Madhya Pradesh, stands as a remarkable testament to this unity.
The History of Hussain Tekri
Around 110 years ago, during the reign of Nawab Mohammad Ismail Ali Khan, Dhul Gyaras and Muharram coincided on the same day, causing tension between the two communities. The Nawab decreed that the Dhul Gyaras procession would proceed first, followed by Muharram. Consequently, the Muharram procession in Javra was left incomplete. The following day, an elderly woman reported seeing a divine light over the Tekri (hill) and observed spiritual beings performing ablution there.
The Nawab had a similar vision. When he visited the site, he discovered marks of horse hooves and signs of ablution. It was believed that Imam Husayn’s family had visited the site. Following this, shrines were established on the Tekri, and today there are six shrines dedicated to Imam Husayn and his family members.
Special Events and the Devotee Turnout
Despite being a Muslim religious site, Hussain Tekri has become a focal point for special events during the Hindu festival of Holi. Thousands of devotees congregate here for the special loban (incense) ceremony on Holi night. This ceremony starts at 10 PM and attracts over 40,000 people, many of whom come to witness the natural glow of Holi.
Mystical Light and the Exorcism of Evil Spirits
According to Muslim cleric Abid Husain, Hussain Tekri serves as a site for exorcising evil spirits and ghosts twice a year—once during Chehlum and once on Holika Dahan night. On Holika Dahan, a miraculous light is seen, believed to help people rid themselves of dark forces. After the loban ceremony, people head towards Baman Khedi to view the light, and those who sense spiritual forces drive them away by nailing them to an old tree.
Millions of Nails and Unique Experiences
Near the Abbas Alamdar shrine at Hussain Tekri, some trees are adorned with millions of nails. Muslim cleric Anwar Ali explains that these nails are hammered into the trees when evil spirits are dispelled.
People afflicted by ghosts or spirits often exhibit behavioural changes upon nearing the dargah; some may tremble or scream. They bathe in the drain and roll in mud before laying in the grave.
Significant Hindu Devotees
Though Hussain Tekri is a Muslim religious site, it attracts a considerable number of Hindu devotees, especially during Holi. This influx underscores the universal significance of such religious sites in India and highlights their role as symbols of Hindu-Muslim unity.
The Role of Dargahs in Indian Society
Dargahs hold a pivotal place in India’s cultural and religious landscape. They are not only centres for spiritual growth but also play a crucial role in fostering unity and peace within society. Sites like Hussain Tekri enhance the spirit of love and cooperation among different religious communities, demonstrating that despite religious diversity, there exists a fundamental unity in human emotions.
Pictures by Afroz Khan.
Sahil Razvi is an author and research scholar specializing in Sufism and history. He is an alumnus of Jamia Millia Islamia.