Kiren Rijiju Offers PM Modi’s 'Chadar' at Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Launches Pilgrim App and Manual

Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Saturday presented a ceremonial ‘chadar’ sent by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Ajmer Sharif Dargah on the occasion of ‘Urs’ to mark the death anniversary of revered Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti.
During his visit, Rijiju conveyed the prime minister’s message of unity and harmony among all religions. Speaking to reporters, he said, “I have come here with the PM’s ‘chadar’ and prayed for peace and prosperity. The message from Ajmer Dargah inspires the whole world to live in harmony.”
In a bid to improve facilities for pilgrims, the minister launched the official web portal of the dargah, the ‘Garib Nawaz’ mobile app, and an operations manual aimed at ensuring a smooth and peaceful experience for devotees, particularly the elderly, women, and children. Rijiju assured the dargah committee and stakeholders that his ministry would provide all necessary support to enhance the management system.
PM Modi’s Call for Harmony
While offering the ‘chadar’, Rijiju read aloud the prime minister’s message, which emphasized the importance of communal harmony. PM Modi’s message urged followers of all faiths to work together for the welfare of society and global peace.
“Lakhs of people visit this sacred place each year. It is important that they can offer prayers peacefully. The manual we launched today is a step toward ensuring a better environment for pilgrims,” Rijiju added.
Security and Reception
Elaborate security arrangements were in place for Rijiju’s visit. Upon landing in Jaipur, he was received by BJP leaders from the state’s minority morcha before proceeding to Ajmer by road. Representatives from the dargah committee, ‘khadims’, and other stakeholders were present during the ceremony.
Speaking at the airport, Rijiju reiterated the significance of maintaining harmony in the country. “On the auspicious occasion of Urs, we hope to foster a positive atmosphere across India. All communities—Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Parsi, Buddhist, and Jain—are welcome at the dargah,” he said.
Responding to Controversy
When asked about the ongoing legal case regarding a claim that the dargah was built over a Shiva temple, Rijiju refrained from making any direct comment. He stated, “I have come here with the PM’s message of unity. My purpose is to offer ‘chadar’ and convey a message of peace.”
The case, filed by Hindu Sena president Vishnu Gupta, was admitted by a local court in Ajmer in November, and notices have been issued to the dargah committee, the Ministry of Minority Affairs, and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Despite calls from some groups asking the prime minister not to send a ‘chadar’ this year, the annual tradition continued as a gesture of goodwill.
Significance of Urs
‘Urs’ at Ajmer Dargah is an annual event commemorating the death anniversary of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, also known as ‘Garib Nawaz’ for his service to the poor and marginalized. Thousands of devotees from across the country and abroad gather at the dargah to offer prayers during the week-long event.
Since assuming office, Prime Minister Modi has consistently sent a ceremonial ‘chadar’ to the dargah each year, underscoring the government’s commitment to promoting communal harmony and respecting all faiths.
Rijiju concluded his visit by expressing his gratitude to the dargah committee and the local administration for their cooperation. He urged people to visit the dargah and experience its spiritual significance, adding, “Come here and feel how this place inspires us to live in peace and unity.”
The visit highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to uphold the rich cultural and religious heritage of India while promoting peace and inclusivity across all communities.