Set in the heart of Malerkotla, Dargah Baba Hazrat Sheikh offers a mystical experience where spirituality, history, and art intertwine. The shrine is dedicated to Baba Hazrat Sheikh, popularly known as Baba Haider Sheikh, a revered Sufi saint whose life was rooted in devotion, peace, and service to humanity. His influence continues to echo in the spiritual legacy of Malerkotla, drawing pilgrims and travelers from across the globe. Born in 1434 CE in Sherwan, Sheikh Sardaruddin Sader-e-Jahan was destined for spiritual greatness. As the son of Sheikh Ahmed Jinda Pir and grandson of Sheikh Ali Shahbaz Khan, he showed a natural inclination toward spirituality from an early age. Inspired by the great Hazrat Baha-ud-din Zakariya (R.A.) of Multan, Baba Haider Sheikh became his disciple and, under his guidance, embarked on a journey to spread the message of love and harmony. In 1449, the saint settled along the banks of the Sutlej River at Bhumsi (present-day Malerkotla), dedicating his life to prayer and meditation. The Sheikh’s arrival is often regarded as the beginning of Malerkotla’s rich cultural history, as chronicled by Iftikhar Ali Khan, the last Nawab of the princely state. Baba Haider Sheikh, an Afghan Sherwani from Khurasan, became known not only for his piety but also as a symbol of unity during his time. After a life filled with devotion, Baba Haider Sheikh passed away on 14th Ramadan, 922 AH / 1515 CE. He was laid to rest at the very spot where he used to offer prayers, and over the years, many of his family members were buried nearby. It was the sixth-generation descendant, Bayzid Khan, the last Nawab of Malerkotla, who constructed the magnificent tomb shrine in his honor. The dargah comes alive with vibrant religious gatherings on the first Thursday of every month, where devotees gather to seek blessings. However, the most prominent event is the annual fair held in May-June (known as Jeth and Hadd Chaunkis). This grand celebration sees millions of visitors from across India, transforming the shrine into a sanctuary of music, prayer, and festivity.
