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Tomb of Saint Jalal al-Din or Ganj-i-ravan [flowing treasure] |
In
this city of Sufi dargahs and tombs, the shrine of Jalal al-Din,
known by his epithet Ganj-i-Ravan (flowing treasure), is another
pilgrimage site favored as much for its miraculous powers as for
its magnificent tree. The shrine overlooks a spring-fed pond known
as the Fairies' Tank (pariyon ka talab) which also has miraculous
healing properties. |
Pond With Healing Properties for Women's Iillnesses |
| Praying
at this dargah and washing in the waters of the Fairies' Tank,
women are said to be cured of infertility and other ailments. |
Tree
at Shrine of Jalal al-Din
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This
oddly-shaped but beautiful tree is said to have spon-taneously
begun growing when the saint threw a stick in the courtyard.
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Like pilgrims to the Dargah of Zar Zari Zar Baksh, women pray
here to conceive a child and, as a symbol of their prayer, attach
colored bits of fabric and bangles above the door lintel or on
the limbs of the great tree.
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Cloth Ties
Representing Desires |
Also
in this courtyard is the tomb of a hijra (hermaphrodite or transgendered
man) who is said to have mocked the saint's ability to help people
conceive. According to the story told by the caretaker of the
shrine, the hijra became pregnant by the power of the saint, but
died in childbirth. Stones mark the grave of both the hijra and
child. |
Mosque Prayer Plaque |
Within
the courtyard of the dargah is a small mosque. Adorning the simple
wall of the mosque is a verse from the Qur'an. |
Dargah Masjid Closeup |
Dargah Masjid |
In
the outside courtyard of the dargah is the remnant of a black
yoni embedded in the earth. Missing the linga, it is fixed deep
within the courtyard of the dargah. |
Black Yoni |
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