: Thousands of devotees from across India and from Myanmar, Sri Lanka and the Gulf countries have arrived at Nagore, the famous Muslim pilgrim centre in this district, for the 14-day annual 'Kandoori festival.'
Sheik Hasan Saheb, Managing Trustee of the Dargah said the festival was being held for the past 458 years and that it commenced this year on March 21 with the procession of the holy flag. Flags have been hoisted in the five minarets of the Dargah, he said.
Situated four km north of Nagapattinam, Nagore is an important Muslim pilgrim centre in the country. The Dargah of Saint Hazrath Syed Shahul Hameed Quadir Wali in Nagore is more than 500 years old.
Saint Hazrath Syed Shahul Hameed, believed to be the 23rd descendant of Prophet Muhammad (Sal), was born in Manickapur, near Allahabad. When he came to Thanjavur on a pilgrimage in 16th century AD, he reportedly cured the illness of the then King Achuthappa Naicken, who gifted him lands in Nagore.
The Saint lived there for the rest of his life serving all people After he passed away at the age of 68, his body was entombed at Nagore.
His death anniversary is observed as 'Kandoori Festival' every year for 14 days. This year's fest will conclude on Apr 3 with the dismounting of the holy flag.
The main event - Sandanakoodu procession - will be held on the night of Mar 30, said the Managing Trustee.
