Daily ceremonies
KHIDMAT
The sacred ceremony is conducted twice a day, once early in the morning around 4.00 a.m. and again at 3.00 p.m. There is a slight distinction between the two Khidmats. In the morning, it lasts for about an hour before the Fajar prayer. The main entrance of the Shrine, which is closed late at night, is opened with the call of Azan, allowing pilgrims to enter only up to the second door, but not inside the Shrine. The Khadims then enter to perform the Khidmat as follows:
The flowers are delicately removed from the Holy Grave, and a fresh Ghilaf (velvet sheet) that covers the Holy Grave is replaced, accompanied by the presentation of fresh flowers. The surroundings of the Holy Mazar are meticulously cleaned using Farasha, a long broom made of peacock tail feathers, before devotees are allowed to enter.
The daytime Khidmat, performed at 3.00 p.m. (2.30 p.m. on Thursdays), allows pilgrims to be inside the Shrine, except for ladies. In addition to the morning Khidmat, Sandal (non-alcoholic perfume) is also offered on the Mazar pak, which is then distributed among the pilgrims, followed by the recitation of Fateha. In the morning Khidmat, neither Sandal is presented nor Fateha is recited. On both occasions, the Khadim of Gharib Nawaz (R.A.) offers prayers (duas) for all the pilgrims.
ROSHNI
Fifteen minutes before the evening prayer, the enchanting ritual of Roshnee (lighting) commences. Khuddam gracefully carry candles inside the sacred Tomb, accompanied by the resounding beats of drums in the background. Upon entering, the devoted Khadims delicately place these candles in ornate lamps and recite verses in the poetic Persian language, resonating with spiritual significance. Finally, the lamps, now adorned with candles, are thoughtfully positioned in the four corners of the Holy Tomb and are kindled, illuminating the divine atmosphere with their radiant glow.
KARKA (Closing)
Karka is the solemn closing ceremony of the Tomb, conducted an hour after the Isha prayer. Following an ancient tradition, approximately 20 minutes before sealing the door, when one-fifth of the night has passed, a designated individual announces the tolling of the clock five times, prompting the devotees within the Tomb to respectfully depart from the Shrine. Subsequently, three revered khadims meticulously clean and sweep the sacred Tomb. Once they exit the Tomb, the bell rings six times in quick succession. Without delay, the melodious voices of the Qawwals fill the air with a special song known as 'Karka'. Upon the completion of this soul-stirring rendition, the entrance to the Tomb is reverently sealed.
LANGER
The Dargah's daily ceremony includes the noble tradition of Langer, a sacred act of free food distribution. Among the heartwarming offerings is the delectable wheat porridge, prepared with utmost care using a unique grass, holding deep symbolic value as it is the very porridge that Khawaja Baba himself used to relish. Even the illustrious Emperor Akbar, when visiting Khawaja Baba's Mazar, would humbly stand in line, partaking in the Langer like any ordinary soul. This gracious Langer event unfolds after the Isha prayer (namaz), fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity, humility, and spiritual nourishment for all who attend.