The Ajan Pir Dargah Urs Festival is one of Assam’s most spiritually enriching events, celebrated annually at the sacred shrine of Ajan Fakir, a revered 17th-century Sufi saint. This festival, held in Sivasagar, transcends religion and celebrates the spirit of communal harmony, where both Hindus and Muslims come together to honor the saint who dedicated his life to spreading peace, devotion, and unity in the Brahmaputra Valley.
Ajan Fakir, also known as Hazrat Shah Miran or Shah Milan, arrived in Assam from Baghdad in the 17th century. He played a vital role in uniting the diverse communities of Assam under the shared values of love, compassion, and spiritual harmony. As a Sufi saint and poet, Ajan Fakir composed several Zikirs — devotional songs in the Assamese language — that still resonate across the state. His teachings emphasized equality, faith in the Almighty, and the essence of humanity beyond religion.
The Meaning of Urs
The word Urs comes from Arabic, meaning “wedding,” symbolizing the saint’s spiritual union with the divine upon his death. Thus, the Urs festival marks the death anniversary of a Sufi saint, not with mourning but with joyous remembrance and devotion. The Ajan Pir Dargah Urs celebrates the saint’s divine journey and his unifying message of peace among all communities.
Location and Setting
The Ajan Pir Dargah is located about 22 kilometers from Sivasagar town, in the picturesque Saraguri Chapori area of Assam. The shrine, with its stunning white dome and serene ambiance, stands as a symbol of tranquility and devotion. The surrounding natural beauty of Sivasagar — once the royal capital of the Ahom Kingdom — adds to the charm of this sacred site, making it a must-visit spiritual destination.
The Celebration
During the Urs festival, thousands of devotees — both Hindu and Muslim — gather at the Dargah to participate in prayers, sing Zikirs, and pay homage to the great saint. The air fills with spiritual chants and the sound of drums, reflecting the saint’s teachings of unity and harmony.
Offerings of flowers, sweets, and chadars (holy sheets) are made at the shrine as symbols of respect and devotion. Many devotees light candles or diyas as a gesture of peace and remembrance. The festival also includes communal feasts, or langars, where people from all backgrounds sit together and share meals, further emphasizing the inclusive spirit of Ajan Fakir’s message.
Symbolism and Significance
The Ajan Pir Dargah Urs Festival stands as a beacon of interfaith unity. It beautifully illustrates how Assam’s spiritual fabric has always been woven with threads of mutual respect and cultural coexistence. The festival promotes a timeless message — that love and devotion transcend religion, caste, or creed.
Ajan Fakir’s influence continues to be felt even today through his Zikirs and Zaris, which have become an integral part of Assam’s cultural and religious identity. These soulful songs, blending elements of Sufi mysticism with Assamese folk traditions, are performed throughout the Urs, inspiring devotion and inner peace.
Visiting the Dargah
The best time to visit Ajan Pir Dargah is during the Urs festival, which usually falls in the winter months. The nearest major town, Sivasagar, is well connected by road and rail from Guwahati and Jorhat. The shrine’s peaceful setting and spiritual energy make it a perfect destination for those seeking both cultural and religious experiences.
Architecture and Atmosphere
The Dargah’s architecture is a blend of simplicity and elegance. Its white marble structure, calm surroundings, and reflective ponds create a tranquil atmosphere ideal for meditation and prayer. Inside, the tomb of Ajan Fakir is adorned with flowers, incense, and offerings. The soft hum of Zikirs and the collective prayer sessions offer an experience of divine connection that words can scarcely describe.
Modern-Day Importance
In modern Assam, the Ajan Pir Dargah Urs Festival continues to symbolize unity and brotherhood. It attracts not only locals but also visitors from across India who come to witness this unique fusion of faiths. The festival has also gained cultural importance, showcasing Assam’s deep-rooted Sufi traditions and the state’s long-standing ethos of peaceful coexistence.
FAQs with Short Answers
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Who was Ajan Fakir?
A 17th-century Sufi saint from Baghdad who spread peace and unity in Assam.
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What is the Urs festival?
A religious celebration marking the death anniversary of a Sufi saint.
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Where is Ajan Pir Dargah located?
It’s in Saraguri Chapori, about 22 km from Sivasagar, Assam.
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Why is Ajan Fakir famous?
He composed Assamese devotional songs called Zikirs promoting harmony.
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When is the Urs festival celebrated?
Annually, around winter, marking Ajan Fakir’s death anniversary.
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Do both Hindus and Muslims attend the festival?
Yes, it’s celebrated jointly by both communities in Assam.
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What activities take place during the festival?
Prayers, chanting Zikirs, offerings, and communal feasts.
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What does ‘Urs’ mean?
It means “wedding” in Arabic, symbolizing a saint’s union with God.
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Why is Ajan Pir Dargah significant in Assam?
It represents interfaith unity and Sufi heritage.
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How can tourists reach Ajan Pir Dargah?
By road from Sivasagar town, which is well-connected to Guwahati.
Quick Info Table
| Topic |
Details |
| Festival Name |
Ajan Pir Dargah Urs Festival |
| Honored Saint |
Ajan Fakir (Hazrat Shah Miran/Shah Milan) |
| Location |
Saraguri Chapori, near Sivasagar, Assam |
| Distance from Sivasagar |
Approximately 22 km |
| Origin |
17th century, introduced by Ajan Fakir from Baghdad |
| Main Attractions |
Zikir chanting, communal prayers, langar feasts |
| Best Time to Visit |
During the Urs Festival (Winter Season) |
| Participants |
Both Hindus and Muslims |
| Symbolism |
Unity, peace, and interfaith harmony |
| Nearest City |
Sivasagar (Connected to Guwahati & Jorhat) |
