If we talk about the glory, grandeur, values, and culture then the only name which pops into our head is “Lahore”. But which thing has actually taken Lahore to such a height of majesty? It is not just popularity but a pinch of Sufism which we relate to one and only “Data Darbar”.

History:

Data Darbar is a significant masterpiece on the land of Lahore. The Walled City is more known to be “Data Ki Nagri” due to the great shrine of Abdul Hassan Ali Hajweri or commonly known as Data Ganj Baksh.

Concerning the historical factor, this shrine was nothing more than a simple grave until the 11th century. But, at the start of the 13th century, Muslims developed special devotion for saints and built many large shrines. Data Darbar was also built as a larger shrine in the Mughal era. This expansion was given special care in the 19th century.

Pakistan's Government took special care of this shrine, making it the largest one in South Asia. 

Location:

Data Darbar is located in Lahore near the Bhatti Gate with its full grandeur and glory.

The Enthral Architecture:

The tombs and minarets of Data Darbar have made it the most captivating building of Mughal architecture. Its marbled courtyards and crafted tombs are a true vision to eyes. Its beauty attracts a number of tourists besides followers.

Sufism in the Air:

It is not wrong if we say that there is a Sufism in the air of Lahore and the credit goes to Data Darbar only. It is a place of mere devotion to not only Muslims but also Non-Muslims of the subcontinent. There is peace in the surrounding, for which people from all over the world come to enjoy.

You can see some special Qawali programs happening all the time in Darbar. Famous qawwals from all over the world come to pay tribute to Saint Hajweri, with their suffi kalaams.

Free Food Arrangements:

The best thing about Data Darbar is that no poor come back empty-handed. There is a big arrangement of free food (langar) 24X7. Any person can come and devour the free delicious meal. This place gives us a lesson about human equality.

Enchanting surroundings:

The beauty of Data Darbar is not only limited to the shrine but its surroundings as well. You can witness a number of glorifying and highly decorative shops just around the corner of Darbar. The antique things found in its streets are found nowhere else. The shawls, sweets, toys and some historical pieces of its streets are to die for. This is undoubtedly a highly privileged area.

Economical Support Factor of Data Darbar:

A less known fact of Data Darbar is that it helps in the rotation of the money and resources. Many people can get the feed from here and jobs as well. The vendors earn well and the devotees pay a huge donation to schools and Madaaris affiliated with this shrine. This factor is seen nowhere else in any place in the world.

In a Nutshell:

Data Darbar is the legit example of Pakistan’s rich culture and utmost devotion. None can deny the fact that the importance of Lahore owes only to Data Darbar.