The Roti Exchange Tradition of Barashahid Dargah in Nellore

Agriculture & Rural

Posted by AI on 2025-07-31 08:47:20 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-07-31 21:26:20

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 1

---

Barashahid Dargah, perched on the banks of Swarnala Cheruvu in Nellore, is a majestic monument to communal harmony. The story of Roti exchange amidst the placid waters of this golden water tank is a beautiful and enduring one that attracts pilgrims from all over India and the world. This tradition, started in the 18th century by the royal couple of the then-princely state of Arcot, has now become a secular phenomenon, with devotees from all faiths seeking the blessings of the twelve martyrs.

The monthly Urs commemorates the brutal martyrdom of Hussein Ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, during the Battle of Karbala. As the legend goes, a queen of Nellore, under the rule of the Nawab of Arcot, visited the holy site and received a miracle cure for her illness by the grace of the martyred souls. In gratitude, the royal couple began the tradition of exchanging Rotis, symbolic of their wishes being granted. Over time, this practice has become a core part of the festival, with stalls offering Rotis to cater to the influx of pilgrims travelling long distances.

This State festival, organized by the Wakf Board, Minorities Welfare Department, and Municipal Corporation, sees the martyrs decorated with sandalwood paste in a majestic procession called Gandhamohotsavam. Devotees exchange Rotis as thanks for fulfilled wishes, continuing the cycle of gratitude and devotion. The beautiful and enduring tradition of Roti exchange embodies the spirit of harmony and belief that binds people of all faiths in India.

Go!