Hindutva extremists set eyes on Haji Malang Dargah after Ram Mandir opening

Haji Malang Dargah, a Sufi shrine near Mumbai, has become the center of controversy after a prominent Indian political figure expressed a desire to "liberate" it exclusively for Hindus.

According to Cherylann Mollan from the BBC who investigated the controversy, the Sufi saint's tomb, a site of disputed history, tradition, and faith, requires climbing around 1,500 rock-carved stairs.

Situated atop a hill near Mumbai, the Haji Malang Dargah is believed to hold the burial of an Arab missionary who came to India over 700 years ago.

Despite the theological conflict, this shrine, like many Sufi shrines in India, symbolizes absorption and tolerance.

Flowers and chadars are offered by Muslims and Hindus alike at the saint's tomb and it is believed that requests made with a “pure heart” will always come true.

The shrine's administrative board reflects coexistence, led by a Hindu Brahmin family with two Muslim trustees.

However, a recent political statement by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, claiming the shrine as a Hindu temple and stating his intention to “liberate” the building, has sparked controversy.