Sep 30, 2008 07:11 PM
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Perfect motorable road from Delhi leads to Ajmer city almost synonymous with the holy shrine of sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti. One utters the name of Ajmer city and the vision of shrine flashes in the mind. En-route if one can stop over at Kishanganj, beautiful miniature paintings can be viewed at this place and u are reminded of Giridhar Devotee Meera and her stand to face all the odds in the name of devotion.
A very sweet tale woven in romance is evident in those Bani Thani style of painting showcasing Radha Krishna tales. History lovers may get a peep into Rathore Kingdom during the visit to Roopnagar Fort which is a short drive away from Kishangarh, otherwise can head straight to city of Ajmer which depicts old world charm.
Driving through the crowded railway station we checked into a moderate hotel somewhat close to the shrine and were advised at the Reception of the Hotel to be careful about the personal belongings viz. purse/wallet, mobiles and jewellery etc.
While visiting the shrine as anti-social elements make good use of overcrowded dargah. Bracing ourselves, we proceeded towards the dargah through over crowded bazaar on a Friday evening. Vendors trying to attract pilgrims with various stuff like painted enamel ware, crocheted caps, ladies dress materials and menz clothing et all making the pace quite snail like towards the dargah.
The most interesting fact about the Dargah is that it is being visited by Hindu and Muslims alike. Crossing the heavy metallic gates leading to the dargah, u can borrow caps/head gear and proceed towards the shrine. U may offer the chaadar, the cost of which may vary from Rs.50 to Rs. 1000 and even above. Outside the encircling railing of the tomb, one can come across an assortment of devotees in deep meditative postures, jostlers, fakirs, quawaals etc. and u have to make your way to get into the encircled area for the glimpse of the holy shrine.
The visit keeps you wondering about the spiritual pursuit of the Sufi Saint who worked for great many years towards the betterment of the humanity. While one is mystified with the interesting interiors and various activities undertaken therein, the most fascinating one is the food cooked in two different sizes of vessels, one of them a very huge and another smaller. The devotees put their contributions in those vessels and the proceeds are used to feed a large number of people everyday.
Post visiting the Dargah at almost dusk we headed towards Anna Sagar. Sitting on a perched Marble encircle the quiet waters reflecting the lights of nearby streets had yet another mystical element to it. Another interesting water body in the vicinity is Foy sagar which is yet another artificial lake that was constructed under the supervision of a British Engineer by the name Foy.
Next day the visit to Jain temple - Soni Ji ki nasia, popularly known as "Lal Mandir" was quite superb wonder of jain architecture. Photography was prohibited in the premises and non-jains were not allowed entry into the worshipping area housing the idol of Lord Mahavir but the museum side was accessible wherein the whole hall was showcasing gold enrobed artifacts. The steep climb to Taragarh fort is rewarded by the scenic view of the nearby hills. It is said that the place served as a Sanatorium at some point of time.
