The revered Ajmer Sharif Dargah, dedicated to Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, witnessed a historic surge in pilgrim footfall during the Annual Urs Festival 2025. This year, over 2.5 million devotees from across India and abroad gathered to pay their respects, marking the highest attendance in the dargah’s history.
Highlights of the Annual Urs Festival 2025
- Devotional Gatherings:
The week-long festival included qawwalis, special prayers, and the traditional chadar offerings, reflecting the rich Sufi traditions of Rajasthan.
(Rajasthan Tourism Department) - Global Participation:
Pilgrims from 20+ countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Middle East, joined the celebrations, reinforcing the dargah’s global significance as a symbol of peace and unity. - Enhanced Facilities:
The Rajasthan government ensured seamless arrangements, including free transportation, medical camps, and improved sanitation and security measures for the convenience of devotees.
Economic and Cultural Impact
- Tourism Boost:
Local businesses reported a 40% increase in revenue, with hotels, eateries, and shops benefiting significantly from the influx of pilgrims. - Preserving Heritage:
The Urs Festival showcased the unique Sufi heritage of Ajmer, reinforcing its status as a major center for spiritual tourism. - Employment Opportunities:
The festival created 5,000+ temporary jobs, providing livelihoods to local artisans, vendors, and service providers.
Future Plans for Pilgrim Tourism
- Infrastructure Upgrades:
Plans are in place to modernize the surrounding areas of the dargah, including improved roads, dedicated parking spaces, and better crowd management systems. - Digital Access:
The government aims to launch an Ajmer Dargah mobile app for pilgrims, offering real-time updates, prayer schedules, and online chadar offerings.
A Testament to Faith and Unity
The record-breaking footfall at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah during the Annual Urs Festival reaffirms its status as a spiritual hub that transcends boundaries, attracting millions with its timeless message of love and devotion.
