Introduction
The festival of Giaravahin Sharif is celebrated in honour of Hazrat Abdul
Qadir Jilani, the ancient Muslim saint of Baghdad. Jilani is said to be a
direct descendant of Prophet Mohammed and is greatly respected by Muslims
for his spirituality and more so for his teachings and sayings.
The festival of Giaravahin Sharif falls on the eleventh day of the Muslim
month of Rabi-us-Sani. People celebrate the festival by offering prayers,
sweets and flowers in the memory of Abdul Qadir Jilani. The festival is
specially celebrated by the Sunni sect of Islam
Abdul Qadir Jilani
Shaikh Mohyuddin Abdul Qadir Jilani is considered to be the grandson of
Prophet Mohammed. He was born in in an Iranian village called Gilan. Abdul
Jilani was famous for his honesty and truthfulness and it is believed that
his mother had a great influence on building his character.
The saint received higher education in Baghdad but took up a simple life of
Sufi. While spreading the message of love he also taught people to help
others. Abdul Jilani had great knowledge on the subject of religion and was
a great orator too. This quality won him many followers.
His followers lovingly call him Ghaus-i-Azam, meaning the Great Help. Abdul
Qadir Jilani died in 1166 of the Christian era. His mausoleum is preserved
in Baghdad and draws a large number of visitors every year.
