URS GALIYAKOT

Celebrated In : Galiyakot, Dungarpur Distt., 160 Kms from Udaipur. Festival of : Ismaili Shia Muslims Memorial : Saint Sayyed Fakhruddin Timing : On the 27th day of Moharram

Galiyakot is a small village of Tehsil Sagwara in Dungarpur District. It is located on the banks of the river Mahi and holds special significance for Dawoodi Bohras, a sect of the Ismaili Shia Muslims. They converge at Galiyakot for 'ziyarat' (pilgrimage) at the memorial of the revered saint, Sayyed Fakhruddin, The mausoleum is called Mazar-e-Fakhri. The followers of the saint arrive here not only from the States of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Rajasthan but also from abroad.

THE URS

Thousands of followers and devotees converge at the shrine during the annual Urs, which is celebrated on the 27th day of Moharram, the first month of the Muslim calendar. Many devotees seek blessings of the saint to have their wishes fulfilled. This is called 'mannat' and generally, the devotees come to the shrine again to express their gratitude after their wishes are fulfilled.

Before the Urs ceremonies begin, the tomb is decorated with flowers and lit up with lamps. The Urs is initiated with mass prayers and recitation of the Holy Quran. A devotional gathering called 'majlis' is held wherein songs are sung in praise of the saint. A free community lunch is organised and all the devotees feel privileged to partake of that feast. The ceremonies of the Urs are headed by the Dai-ul- Mutlaq, who is the religious head of the community. People make offerings at the shrine consisting of sweets, fruits, coconut and jaggery. Cash offerings are also made.