*** Art & Culture ***
Dewa Sharif, a small town in the Barabanki district of Uttar Pradesh, India, is renowned for its deep spiritual and cultural roots. The town is particularly famous for the shrine of Hazrat Waris Ali Shah, a revered Sufi saint. The Dewa Mela, an annual fair, draws devotees and tourists from across the country, celebrating a blend of spiritual devotion, local traditions, and vibrant festivities.
Key Aspects of Dewa Sharif’s Culture:
Sufi Heritage:
Dewa Sharif is a significant center of Sufi culture, known for promoting the teachings of love, unity, and humanity. The shrine of Hazrat Waris Ali Shah is a spiritual center where people of different faiths come together, highlighting the town’s message of communal harmony. The Sufi teachings of Hazrat Waris Ali Shah emphasize compassion, inclusiveness, and the importance of inner spirituality, attracting visitors seeking peace and solace.
Dewa Mela: The annual Dewa Mela is one of the town’s major cultural events, held in memory of Hazrat Waris Ali Shah and his father Qurban Ali Shah. The fair features qawwali performances, Sufi poetry, cultural shows, and local crafts. This event is a vibrant display of local music, dance, and traditional arts, offering a unique insight into the town's diverse cultural expressions.
Local Crafts and Handicrafts: The town is known for its traditional mitti bartan (clay utensils), crafted by skilled local artisans. These items, including cooking pots, water pitchers, and decorative pieces, are celebrated for their earthy aesthetic and functionality. Artisans in Dewa Sharif take pride in preserving these ancient crafts, making each item by hand and showcasing the deep connection between the town’s culture and nature.
Cuisine: Dewa Sharif’s local cuisine reflects the flavors of Awadhi traditions, with an emphasis on slow-cooked dishes, rich spices, and age-old recipes. Pilgrims and visitors often enjoy the local delicacies, which include dishes like kebabs, biryani, and traditional sweets. Food is also closely tied to the town’s hospitality culture, where serving meals is seen as a way of honoring guests and maintaining social bonds.
Music and Qawwali: Qawwali and Sufi music play a central role in the cultural life of Dewa Sharif . Qawwals (Sufi singers) often perform at the shrine, singing praises and devotional songs that create an atmosphere of spiritual ecstasy. The music and poetry associated with Dewa Sharif carry deep spiritual meanings and serve as a medium to connect with the divine, making it a vital part of the town’s cultural heritage. Dewa Sharif’s culture is a harmonious blend of spirituality, tradition, and artistic expression. It embodies the essence of Sufi teachings while preserving the crafts and customs that have been part of the town’s identity for centuries. Visitors to Dewa Sharif can experience a unique cultural immersion, where faith, art, and tradition converge to create a rich tapestry of heritage.