Thousands Gather for Five-Day Spiritual Celebration in Ajmer

On Monday, 24 August, the historic Mahfil Khānā at Ajmer Sharif became a sea of colour as the 18th International Sufi Rang Mahotsav opened its doors. More than 50,000 pilgrims, artists and tourists streamed into the venue, making the inaugural day one of the largest in the festival’s 18‑year timeline.

The five‑day programme features performers from 43 nations, presenting Sufi music, dance, poetry and contemporary visual art. The Chishti Foundation, led by Chairman Haji Syed Salman Chishti, with Festival Director Dr. Azim S. Meman, Advisor Dr. Fahim F. Khan and Coordinator Ustad Mahmood Sheikh, orchestrated the event.

The inauguration began with a Qur’an recitation by Syed Fuzail Chishti, followed by blessings from Syed Kaleemuddin Chishti. A moving "Na’at‑e‑Rasool" by Anil Chauhan from Hyderabad deepened the spiritual ambience. Urdu language development council representative Mohammad Kasim reminded the audience of the importance of preserving Urdu script and calligraphy in the digital era.

Two rare Qur’an manuscripts have been placed on display: one written in ink made from gum and saffron (Aab‑e‑Jamjam) and another entirely hand‑stitched. Live calligraphy workshops and carpet‑art painting sessions are engaging visitors throughout the festival. The Mahotsav will continue until 26 August, offering daily calligraphy classes, art exhibitions, rare manuscript viewings and evening "Mahfil‑e‑Sama" concerts open to people of all faiths and backgrounds.