October 29, 2014

The Shrine of Saint Hazrat Shah Jalal


In the north of city, off Airport Road, lies the region's holiest place, the shrine of Saint Hazrat Sha Jalal. The 14th-century sufi saint shah Jalal is buried here, making it a major pilgrim image site fir Bangladesh Muslims.

Being buried near the saint is considered a great honor. Shah Jalal's sword and robes are preserved within the large new Mosque but aren't on display. The tomb is covered with rich brocade and at night the space around it is illuminated with candles - it is quite magical. If you are invited to see the tomb, behave with appropriate solemnity.

The pond in front of the shrine complex is filled with sacred catfish that are fed by pilgrims and are, according to legend, metamorphosed black magicians of the Hindu Raja Gour Govinda, who was defeated by Shah Jalal in 1303. Nearby, on a hillock named Rama Raja's Tilla , you can get some partially blocked views of the city legend has it, a Hindu temple that once stood here was destroyed by an earthquake, instigated by Shah Jalal.

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