Abdul Majeed Hakeem Ilahi, the representative of the Supreme Leader of Iran, visited the Sufi shrine of the 14th-century Sufi saint Hazrat Syed Makhdoom Ashraf Jahangir Semnani in Kichhauchha, Ambedkarnagar district, on Sunday. The saint belonged to the Chishti order.
Strong India-Iran Relations Highlighted
Speaking about the robust ties between India and Iran, Ilahi stated, "The relations between the two countries are ancient. The history of relations between India and Iran is more than 5,000 years old. India is a land that has been a centre of peace, and love and brotherhood have spread from here." He also mentioned that he prayed for the destruction of India's enemies.
Historical Significance of the Sufi Saint
Hazrat Syed Makhdoom Ashraf Jahangir Semnani was born in Semnan, Iran, in 708 AH (1308/1309 CE). He was a prominent saint of the Chishti order who later traveled to India and established his spiritual centre, known as a 'khanqah', in present-day Ambedkarnagar district of Uttar Pradesh.
Ilahi emphasized the unifying role of Sufi traditions, saying, "Sufi tradition conveys the message of love, tolerance and humanity to the entire world, and 'dargahs' serve as a unifying force for society."
Visit to the Dargah Complex
Amid tight security, Ilahi's convoy arrived at the Dargah complex in the afternoon. He first visited the residence of the Dargah's chief caretaker, Syed Mohiuddin Ashraf, and met him. Later, he visited the Dargah and offered a 'chaadar'. He also paid respects at the tomb of Hazrat Syed Makhdoom Ashraf.
