The custodians of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah are typically members of the Chishti Sufi order, which Khawaja Moinuddin Hasan Chishty belonged to. These individuals are often descendants of the beloved khadims of Khawaja Moinuddin chishty or caretakers of the shrine. They are chosen through a hereditary process, where the role is passed down from one generation to the next.Their role primarily involves managing the day-to-
day affairs of the shrine, including its upkeep, security, and assisting pilgrims.
The custodians play a pivotal role in maintaining the shrine and its traditions. They are responsible for opening and closing the Dargah daily, conducting rituals, khidmat / roshni and managing the flow of devotees and visitors. They ensure the orderly functioning of the shrine, especially during the annual Urs festival commemorating Khawaja Moinuddin Chishty’s anniversary when he met with his Beloved Allah rabul alameen.
The custodians have a deep spiritual connection to the shrine and its revered Sufi saint, Khawaja Moinuddin Chishty. They are
seen as the spiritual heirs of the saint and are entrusted with preserving the traditions and teachings of Khawaja Moinuddin Chishty.
Khadims often participate in the religious rituals and ceremonies within the dargah. They are involved in the recitation of prayers, qawwalis (Sufi devotional music), and offering of flowers and incense at the saint’s tomb.
For the millions of pilgrims and visitors who come to Ajmer Sharif Dargah, the custodians are the link to the saint’s legacy. They provide guidance, blessings, and often serve as intermediaries between the devotees
and the Sufi saint, offering prayers on behalf of the visitors.
The Khadims consider themselves as the spiritual descendants of Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti and regard him as their spiritual guide. They claim a special connection to the saint, which is an important aspect of their identity and role as custodians of the shrine.
The Khadims, through their hereditary roles, ensure the continuity of the Sufi traditions and provide a link between the saint’s teachings and the contemporary world. They are an integral part of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and its history, serving as the guardians and caretakers of this revered Sufi shrine.
In summary, the custodians, also known as khadims, of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah are the guardians of its heritage and spirituality. They come from a hereditary lineage, have a deep spiritual connection with Khawaja Moinuddin Chishty, and are crucial in maintaining the shrine’s significance and traditions for millions of devotees who visit the Dargah.
