History of Piran Kaliyar Sharif

Piran Kaliyar Sharif, located near Roorkee in Haridwar district, Uttarakhand, is one of the oldest and most spiritually significant shrines in India. It is the resting place of the great Sufi saint Hazrat Alauddin Ali Ahmed Sabir Kalyari (RA), also known as Sabir Pak. The history of this dargah is deeply rooted in devotion, mysticism, and the message of love for humanity.

At Sabri Human Welfare Trust®, we are humbled to be associated with the legacy of this sacred place and its saint, who dedicated his life to the service of God and mankind.

The Life of Hazrat Sabir Pak (RA)

Hazrat Sabir Pak (RA) was born in the early 13th century (around 1196 CE) in Herat, Afghanistan, into a noble and spiritually gifted family. He was the nephew and spiritual successor (Khalifa) of the famous Sufi saint Hazrat Baba Fareeduddin Ganjshakar (RA) of Pakpattan, who is one of the most prominent saints of the Chishti Sufi Order.

From a very young age, Sabir Pak (RA) displayed deep spiritual inclination, choosing solitude, meditation, and service over worldly matters. He was sent by Baba Fareed to the Kaliyar region (then a dense forest) to serve as the spiritual caretaker of the area. Here, he spent over 36 years in deep devotion, performing chilla (spiritual seclusion) and surviving only on divine remembrance, away from material comforts and recognition.

His patience, humility, and unwavering faith earned him the title “Sabir”, meaning the patient one.

Establishment of the Dargah

After Hazrat Sabir Pak (RA) passed away in 1291 CE, his followers and local devotees built a simple shrine at the site of his burial. Over time, his fame spread far and wide due to his miracles, teachings, and spiritual presence. Devotees from all walks of life began to visit the shrine, and it became a powerful center of spiritual healing and devotion.

The dargah was later formalized and beautifully built during the reign of Sultan Ibrahim Lodhi in the early 16th century. The Sultan, having heard of the saint’s miracles and influence, commissioned the construction of the current mausoleum as a tribute to Hazrat Sabir Pak’s legacy. Since then, the shrine has stood as a symbol of Sufi mysticism, communal harmony, and divine connection.

A Shrine Open to All

One of the most remarkable aspects of Piran Kaliyar Sharif is its universal appeal. People from all religions, castes, and communities visit the shrine with equal faith. The saint’s message of love, equality, and devotion continues to attract seekers from across the world.

The dargah is especially known for:

• Fulfillment of wishes: Many devotees tie threads at the shrine and return with offerings once their prayers are answered.
• Healing and spiritual peace: Visitors often report a sense of calm, healing, and spiritual awakening after visiting.
• Unity and communal harmony: The dargah has been a shining example of interfaith unity for centuries.

Urs Mubarak – Honoring the Saint

The annual Urs Mubarak (death anniversary) of Hazrat Sabir Pak (RA) is observed with great reverence, devotion, and joy. It is held every year in the Islamic month of Rabi’ al-Awwal and draws lakhs of devotees from across the country and abroad.

The Urs celebrations include:

• Qawwali and Sufi music
• Special prayers and dua sessions
• Langar (free food distribution) for all
• Night-long gatherings filled with remembrance of God and praises for the saint

This event celebrates the union of the saint with the Divine and continues to spread his message of love and service.

Connection to Sabri Human Welfare Trust®

Sabri Human Welfare Trust® takes deep inspiration from the life and values of Hazrat Sabir Pak (RA). The saint’s selfless service, patience, and devotion to God and humanity are core principles that guide our mission.

We work to:

• Preserve the sanctity of this historic site
• Serve pilgrims and visitors through health and social initiatives
• Support the local community by offering education, medical camps, and sustainable livelihoods
• Promote communal harmony in the spirit of Sufi teachings

Through our work in and around Piran Kaliyar Sharif, we aim to keep alive the values that Hazrat Sabir Pak (RA) lived by — love, humility, faith, and service.

Conclusion

The history of Piran Kaliyar Sharif is a shining chapter in the spiritual heritage of India. More than 700 years since Hazrat Sabir Pak (RA) walked these lands, his legacy lives on in the hearts of millions. His shrine stands not only as a place of prayer but also as a beacon of hope, peace, and unity.

At Sabri Human Welfare Trust®, we are honored to be part of this living legacy — committed to serving humanity, just as the saint did centuries ago.