Historic Quran Displayed at Mumbai's Mahim Dargah
The iconic Mahim Dargah in Mumbai organized a special ziyarat, or public viewing, of a remarkable over 600-year-old copy of the Quran on the night between March 18 and 19. This ancient manuscript, meticulously hand-calligraphed by the revered 14th-century Sufi saint and scholar Makhdoom Ali Faqih, also known as Hazrat Pir Makhdoom Ali Mahimi, remains in astonishingly good condition.
A Testament to Timeless Craftsmanship
Remarkably, the ink on the pages appears fresh and vibrant, defying the centuries that have passed since its creation. The pages themselves are well-preserved, showcasing the enduring quality of this sacred text. Sohail Khandwani, the managing trustee of both the Mahim and Haji Ali Dargahs, emphasized the significance of this artifact.
"This Quran is among the prized possessions of the Dargah," Khandwani stated. "The Quran was hand-calligraphed by Makhdoom Ali Mahimi. On the intervening night of the 28th and 29th of Ramzan, we hold the public viewing of this rare gem. This has been a tradition for over a century."
Scholarly Legacy and Public Reverence
Khandwani further highlighted that Makhdoom Ali Mahimi was a leading intellectual of his era, authoring several books, including a highly acclaimed commentary on the Quran. The annual viewing event, attended by hundreds of men and women, was overseen by Khandwani's son, Mohammed Ali, and other trustees.
Sabir Sayed, the director of operations at the Mahim Dargah Trust, shared the profound impact of the experience. "It gave us goosebumps as we came near the holy book," he said. "It is a miracle that the copy is in such good condition and the ink looks so fresh."
Preservation and Modernization Efforts
In efforts to safeguard this invaluable heritage, a microfilm copy has already been prepared, and a digitalized version is currently in development. The Mahim Dargah, which attracts lakhs of visitors annually, also hosts the Mahim Mela in honor of the saint. A notable tradition includes the first sandal offering, comprising flowers, sandalwood paste, and a shawl, which is presented by the Mumbai police.
This event not only celebrates a rich Islamic tradition but also underscores the ongoing commitment to preserving historical and religious artifacts for future generations.
