Abdullah Shah Ghazi Mausoleum

مزار عبد الله شاه غازى

Highlighted by a green-domed shrine dedicated to a 9th century Sufi, "Abdullah Shah Ghazi", this is in a sprawling complex perched on a hilltop overlooking Clifton Beach. The 1,400 year old tomb is built on a very high platform with the grave being downstairs, with a tall and square chamber and a green-and-white striped dome, decorated with centuries old Sindhi tile-works and green flags fluttering to give a majestic view. There are separate sitting arrangements for men and women inside the shrine. Abdullah Shah Ghazi was born in Medina in 720, claimed direct descent from the Islamic Prophet Muhammad and is thought of by his followers as the patron saint of Karachi and widely revered in Pakistan. The shrine is said to have protected Karachi from natural disasters such as storms, tsunamis, earthquakes and all sea-related phenomenon, despite it having a climate ripe for tropical storms. An Urs (festival) is held at the shrine from 20 to 22 Dhu al-Hijjah (12th month of the Islamic calendar) for three days marking the anniversary of Abdullah. Qawwali also often takes place on Thursday nights at the shrine. The shrine complex has a vast car-park, a rest house for devotees, a mosque and long lines of shops selling rosaries, incense sticks, glass and silver bangles, prayer mats and beads.

• outdoors

Address

Shahrah-e-Firdousi, Clifton