Dewa Sharif

Dewa sharif situated in Barabankhi district, about 42 km from Lucknow. It is a pilgrimage town and shrine of Sufi Saint Haji Waris Ali Shah. It is also his birthplace.

He influenced many peoples with his thoughts of brotherhood and love for humanity. Haji Waris Ali Shah was in the first quarter of the 19th century in a family of Husaini Sycols. Haji Saheb left this world on 7th April 1905 and was buried at the same spot where he died, and this place is marked by a beautiful monument that was built in his memory by some of his followers.

'Urs' is held every year at the tomb in July. Haji Waris Ali Shah organize 'Urs' of his father, Syed Qurban Ali Shah, in the month of Kartik that was marked by a big fair named 'Dewa Mela.

Pilgrims come to pay homage to Sufi Saints, Haji Waris Ali Shah, and his father, from all parts of the country and also from abroad. During the Dewa Mela, the center of attraction is a big cattle market, and cultural programs like mushaira, Kavi Sammelan, music conference, Manas Sammelan, Seeratun Nabi, etc. organized during the fair. Different types of handicrafts, toys, household utility items, and delicious snacks are also available at brightly lit and beautifully decorated shops.

A mesmerizing firework is displayed at the end of the ten days of Festivity.

Holi is also celebrated here, since Haji Waris Ali Shah believed that all people must respect all religions and he started to celebrate Hindu's Holi festival here. The walls of the shrine become colouful with yellow, red and other colours.