Poa Mecca, situated on top of Garurachal hill, Hajo, Assam, is a revered pilgrimage site that holds deep historical religious, and cultural significance. Known for its association with three major religions—Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism—Hajo is a unique example of religious harmony and spiritual diversity.
History of Poa Mecca
Poa Mecca, which means "a quarter of Mecca," is an ancient mosque built by Pir Giasuddin Auliya, a revered Sufi saint.
According to local legends, Giasuddin Auliya brought a piece of earth from Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, and established it in Hajo.
The name "Poa Mecca" symbolizes the belief that praying here brings spiritual merit equivalent to performing one-fourth of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.The mosque, with its historical roots dating back several centuries, has been a site of pilgrimage for Muslims from across the region.
The most widely spread story is that, when Giasuddin Aulia established the mosque at Garudachala hills, there were the excavation of 90 Shrines – one fourth of Mecca, which was known to be 360. From this one fourth of Mecca, the name ‘Poa Mecca’ evolved.
Giasuddin Aulia:
Born in 1193 in Tabriz of Iran. His name was Shaikh Jalaluddin.
He was a religious Islamic Peer who received ‘Gaus’ (Siddhatva) or order of the God to propagate the holy path among the people.
He remained in Hajo for 20 years and propagated Islam and established a mosque.
From this place, Giasuddin Aulia sent seventy Aulias to propagate Islam in Tibet and China.
The Dargah of Giasuddin Aulia is near the Poa Mecca Dargah. The Dargah was reconstructed in the reign of Shahjahan and this place was declared as a holy place of Islamic faith.
Religious and Cultural Significance Of Hajo:
For Islam:
Pilgrimage Site: Poa Mecca is a major pilgrimage site for Muslims in Assam and neighboring regions. The mosque attracts devotees who come to seek blessings and perform prayers, believing in the sanctity and spiritual merit associated with the site.
Sufi Heritage: The presence of the Sufi saint Pir Giasuddin Auliya adds a layer of spiritual significance, as Sufism emphasizes love, tolerance, and the oneness of humanity, values that resonate deeply in the multicultural tapestry of Hajo.
The ‘Uruch’ festival of Poa Mecca at Hajo observed on ‘Magh Purnima’ is famously celebrated by the Islamic cultivators and religious people of the region.
For Hinduism and Buddhism:
Hayagriva Madhava Temple: Hajo is home to the Hayagriva Madhava Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus and is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha attained Nirvana, thus intertwining Hindu and Buddhist beliefs.
Festivals and Rituals: The temple hosts numerous festivals, attracting thousands of devotees who participate in rituals and seek blessings, further emphasizing Hajo's cultural vibrancy.
The coexistence of Hindu and Buddhist traditions at this site highlights the historical and cultural exchange between these two religions, promoting a sense of shared heritage and mutual respect.
Significance of Hajo as a Trinity of Religions
Hajo's unique standing as a trinity of religions—Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism—makes it a symbol of India's pluralistic and inclusive cultural heritage.
Religious Harmony: The peaceful coexistence of these three religions in Hajo serves as a testament to India's long-standing tradition of religious tolerance and mutual respect. It demonstrates how different faiths can coexist and flourish together in harmony.
Cultural Integration: The intermingling of religious practices and festivals in Hajo reflects a deep cultural integration. It is a place where pilgrims from different faiths come together, participate in each other's rituals, and share a common spiritual space.
Tourism and Pilgrimage: Hajo attracts tourists and pilgrims from across the globe, fostering cultural tourism and promoting the rich spiritual heritage of Assam. The convergence of multiple faiths at Hajo makes it a unique destination for those seeking spiritual enrichment and cultural understanding.
Hajo exemplify the confluence of faiths and the spirit of religious unity in India. The historical significance of Poa Mecca, coupled with Hajo's role as a pilgrimage center for Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism, underscores the area's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. This harmonious blend of different religions not only highlights the diversity of Indian culture but also promotes the values of tolerance, mutual respect, and coexistence that are crucial in today's world.