(26) Ghutiari Sharif:

A shrine dedicated to an ascetic, who is believed to have brought rains to a drought-hit village with his spiritual power, puts Ghutiari Sharif on the map of tourists. A tiny suburb in the hinterland of South 24-Parganas, Ghutiari Sharif boasts a mazaar or dargah of Pir Hazrath Ghazi Syed Mubaraq Ali Sah, who was known to have kept wild tigers as pets.  Legend has it that back in the 17th century this village, then part of the Sundarbans, was hit by a severe drought for several months. It is said that Ghazi Sahab.

Performed intense meditation to bring rainfall to the area. Residents were saved but this strenuous act of meditation cost this holy man his life. The miracle, along with the tragic death of the “holy” man, is remembered to this day.  Since then, starting from the death anniversary of Ghazi Sahab (August 3), a month-long fair is held every year at this dargah. Around 4 to 5 lakh people visit the shrine to pay homage during this period. Interestingly, the mazaar is not only a place of pilgrimage for Muslims. The top of the shrine has a white crazy china mosaic dome with four towers adorned with Islamic floral motifs. Since the entry to the mazaar is through narrow lanes lined with shops, people interested in having a closer look at the dome can climb up on the terrace of the adjoining prayer hall.  

 A few steps from the shrine is a pond (Makka pukur), around which the faithful pray to have their wishes (mannat) granted. They dip their palms into the water and pray silently.  Both Muslims and Hindus pray together at the dargah.

In the afternoon, one can head for Canning, two stations beyond Ghutiari Sharif, the gateway to the Sunderbans. From there, one can hire a motor boat to visit the sangam (confluence) of the rivers Matla and the Bidyadhari. Sunset on the watery horizon can make for a picturesque end to the day.

Going: Ghutiari Sharif is a one-hour journey by local train on the Canning line from Sealdah (south).

Staying: There are many roadside eateries if you want a quick bite. It is not easy to find accommodation in the area. It takes half a day to visit the dargah and come back. It is advisable to be careful about your belongings as pickpockets are reported in the area. It is advisable to start early and come back before sundown.