October 17, 2016 2:36:20 am


For those searching a moment’s peace in the constantly bustling city, the Aga Khan I Hasan Ali Shah’s dargah, nestled in the bosom of Mazgaon — the hub of the Khoja community in Mumbai — is a reason for respite.
Fondly referred to as Mazgaon’s Taj Mahal by many locals, its glistening sky blue domes and marble white minarets are enough to catch anybody’s attention. The ambiance, too, at the dargah evokes feelings of spirituality, devotion and tranquility.
The shrine represents the imprints Hasan Ali Shah left in the Islamic world, specially for Nizari Ismailies, commonly known as Aga Khani Khoja Muslims.
The construction of the mausoleum began soon after Aga Khan I’s funeral in 1881, and it was finally completed in 1884. The mausoleum is well kept and is looked after by the jamaatkhana of the Aga Khani Khoja Muslims.
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Though the mausoleum is open at all hours, it is advisable to visit it during the day to truly enjoy the monument and the locality. The mausoleum is easily accessible by bus, train and cab, and is also easy to spot because of the nine-metre-high white entry gate on the main road.
A clock hangs from the gate to remind devotees about namaz timings. However, only the Aga Khani Khojas are permitted to pay respects to the grave of Hasan Ali Shah.
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