Investigating Chishti Order Dargah and its Cultural Impact on Delhi During Medieval Period

Abstract

Delhi has long been intertwined with Sufism and its rich cultural traditions. The arrival of Sufis in India during the eleventh century significantly reshaped the city’s cultural landscape. Central to Sufi architecture is the dargah a shrine constructed over the graves of revered saints which in Delhi often reflects the architectural influences of the Mughal and Sultanate periods. The Sufi tradition has had a profound impact on the cultural heritage of Delhi and its surrounding regions. This qualitative research examines the architectural styles of dargahs associated with the Chishti Sufi order in Delhi, particularly those built between the 11th and 14th centuries during the Sultanate period. It also explores the cultural influences and evolution of dargah architecture, assessing their role in shaping Delhi’s architectural and cultural identity. The findings offer insights and guidelines for preserving the indigenous heritage and cultural legacy of these sacred sites for future generations.