Kiren Rijiju Offers Chadar at Ajmer Sharif Dargah on Behalf of Central Government

Ajmer, Rajasthan | December 22, 2025 – In a gesture symbolizing India's rich tradition of interfaith harmony and unity, Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, offered a sacred chadar at the revered Ajmer Sharif Dargah on Monday. The chadar was sent by Central Government on the occasion of the 814th annual Urs of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, popularly known as Khwaja Garib Nawaz.

A Tradition of Peace and Inclusivity

The offering of the chadar is an annual tradition followed by Indian Prime Ministers, reflecting the government's respect for Sufi heritage and secular values. Rijiju, accompanied by senior officials including Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, performed the rituals amid tight security arrangements.

Speaking to the media after the offering, Rijiju expressed personal fulfillment from the visit: "Visiting Ajmer Sharif Dargah brings peace. Coming here during Urs and offering the chadar is a unique experience." He prayed for prosperity, harmony, and peace across the nation, adding, "May we all move towards a developed India.

"Rijiju highlighted the shrine's universal appeal: "Khwaja Sahib’s timeless message of love, compassion, and selfless service to humanity continues to illuminate our shared values and strengthen the spirit of unity."

The 814th Urs Festival

The Urs commemorates the death anniversary of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, a 13th-century Sufi saint who promoted tolerance and service to the poor. The festival attracts millions of devotees from diverse faiths, featuring qawwali performances, prayers, and cultural events.

This year's Urs began with the traditional flag hoisting on December 17, 2025, and draws lakhs of pilgrims to the historic dargah in Rajasthan.

Government Commitment to Harmony

The Ministry of Minority Affairs emphasized its dedication to facilitating a smooth pilgrimage, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors. Rijiju was joined by Rajasthan government officials and local leaders, underscoring cross-party support for the event.

This annual participation by the central government reinforces India's ethos of "unity in diversity," with the Ajmer Sharif Dargah standing as a beacon of interfaith dialogue and spiritual solace.