Data Darbar

Data Darbar

The shrine of one of the most revered Sufi saints of South Asia, Hazrat Ali Hujwiri, famously known as Data Ganj Baksh, is located in the center of Old City Lahore. Renovated and enlarged several times during different eras, the shrine has seen a complete transformation, from a simple grave in the 11th century to a sprawling complex. Adjacent to the shrine is the mosque, built initially by Hazrat Ali Hujwiri but rebuilt later in the 19th century. As far as the number of pilgrims to a shrine and the size of the shrine complex are concerned, Data Darbar is Pakistan’s most prominent shrine. Regardless of the time or season, the number of devotees visiting the shrine to pay their homage does not ever seem to diminish. Visiting the shrine is a mystical experience. For a while, one stops thinking about the material world and embarks on a spiritual journey to discover the deeper meaning of existence. Besides offering prayers and paying homage to Hazrat Ali Hujwiri, people also visit the shrine to distribute food among the poor and needy.