NAGORE

One of the popular pilgrimage centres for Muslims in Tamil Nadu is the Dargah at Nagore. Situated 4 kms north of Nagapattinam, Nagore is home to the famous Dargah of Sufi Saint Hazrath Syed Shahul Hameed Quadir Wali. The tomb is more than 500 years old. It has a golden dome, flanked by five minarets. It also has a tank called Peer Kulam, which is believed to have waters with curative properties. The Kandhoori festival of the Saint, during the Islamic month of Jumad Thani (Jumad Akhir) is an important festival celebrated by people of all religions.

Saint Hazrath Syed Shahul Hameed is known to be the 23rd descendent of Prophet Muhammad (Sal). He was born and educated in Manickapur, near Allahabad. He embarked on a journey to the south and was gifted the land in Nagore by the ruler of Tanjavur, Achuthappa Naicken, since he cured him of his illness. Saint Shahul Hameed lived there for rest of his life serving the people, irrespective of religion, caste or creed. After he passed away at the age of 68, his body was entombed at Nagore. The Nagore shrine is interesting, with strong Hindu influences in both architecture and rituals. Many rituals, like applying sandal wood paste, holy water, prasadam (blessed items collected after worship) and tonsuring the head are borrowed from the Hindu tradition. This is also apparent in the playing of nadaswaram and shehnai (Indian wind instruments) music.

A short drive from Nagapattinam, Nagore makes for a busy pilgrimage, with busloads of tourists arriving from all over the state. It owes its commercialisation to the tourist presence. It is a fine example of the harmonious co-existence of Hindu - Muslim communities.

Route: In between Nagapattinam (4 kms north) and Karaikal (12 kms south) and 78 kms west of Thanjavur
Nearest Airport: Trichy (150 kms)
Nearest Rail hub: Nagapattinam (4 kms)
Accomodation: Lodges available at Nagapattinam
Notes: Gets very crowded during the festive season.

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