The
holy city of Ajmer is enveloped by the Aravali Mountain range which is
the reason for the enchanting and serene aura it enjoys. Ajmer has been
the home of several dynasties since its inception in seventh century AD.
The city was founded by the great Chauhan ruler Raja Ajay Pal Chauhan
but was lost at the hands of Prithvi Raj Chauhan to Mohamed Ghauri in
1193 AD. The holy city of Ajmer has been a living place for the rulers
of Delhi Sultanate, the great Mughals, Scindias and the British before
it was finally merged into the Indian union at the time of Independence.
Ajmer is a melting pot of cultures and has been nurtured by all its
rulers. Ajmer city was also the final resting place of the holy Sufi saint Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chisti. The world famous Dargah Sharif which houses the mausoleum of the Gharib Nawaz is situated in Ajmer and almost has become an identity for the city. People from all over the world cutting across faith come to the city of Ajmer to pay respect to the divine saint. The saint came to Ajmer from Persia and remained here for his lifetime to selflessly serve the poor and the downtrodden. The city is also famous for Adhai-din-ka-jhonpra a beautifully carved Mosque which legend has it was built in two and a half days (adhai-din).
The Ajmer city one can say is undoubtedly the city where syncretic traditions flourished combining the best of the Muslim and Hindu traditions. The British chose the city to open here the much famous Mayo College which initially took only boys as its students but now has opened its gates for girls as well. To experience the culture and peace and tranquility which Ajmer offers it is essential to visit this city of Gharib Nawaz.