The annual Urs of Hazrat Amir Khusro—Sufi poet, scholar, and mystic of the 13th century—was marked by a significant and heartwarming event this year: the attendance of 178 Pakistani pilgrims at the Dargah in Nizamuddin, Delhi. Their presence not only carried spiritual weight but also symbolized the enduring power of cultural heritage, unity, and peace between India and Pakistan.

Arriving under the 1974 Indo-Pakistan Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines, the pilgrims were part of an official delegation facilitated by both governments. Leading the delegation was the Charge d’Affaires of Pakistan in India, Mr. Salman Sharif, who laid a ceremonial chaddar on behalf of the people and government of Pakistan.

The Dargah of Hazrat Amir Khusro, a place steeped in centuries of devotion, echoed with qawwalis, prayers, and heartfelt emotion. Pilgrims recited verses, sang traditional Sufi music, and participated in rituals that have withstood the test of time. Their presence was not only a religious journey but also a deeply emotional one.

They also visited the nearby Dargah of Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia, Amir Khusro’s mentor and spiritual guide. The spiritual synergy of the two saints brought further meaning to the pilgrimage. Dewan Tahir Nizami, the current Sajjadah Nasheen, welcomed the delegation and performed the dastaarbandi ceremony, symbolizing honor and hospitality.

For the Pakistani visitors, this was more than a pilgrimage—it was a bridge between the hearts of two nations often divided by politics but united by heritage, faith, and love for Sufi teachings.