Killai’s time-honoured tradition exemplifying interfaith harmony unfolds during ‘Masi Magam’

Experience the rich interfaith tradition of Masi Magam in Killai, where Hindu and Muslim communities celebrate harmony annually.

The annual ‘Masi Magam theerthavari’ in Killai near Chidambaram in Cuddalore district, upholds a centuries-old tradition exemplifying profound interfaith harmony.

Killai, the coastal village is home to the secular tradition among Hindus and Muslims, during the annual celebrations of ‘Masi Magam’, when the processional deity of Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy temple, an important Vaishnavite shrine, passes through local hamlets pausing before the Dargah of Saint Hazrath Syed Sha Rahmathulla Shuttari, where Muslims offer prayers and donations to the deity.

The procession to Killai, located at a distance of 60 km from Srimushnam was taken out during the ‘Masi Magam’ festival on Tuesday.

Syed V.N. Saqaf, Sajjada Nishin and Trustee, Hazrath Syed Sha Rahamathulla Shuttari Valiullah Dargah, Killai, said the saint had settled at Killai in 1720 A.D. receiving 600 acres of land as a gift from Nawab Mohammad Ali Walajah.

“The dargah engaged Uppu Venkatarao, a revenue official at the time, to survey and re-mark the boundaries of these properties. As a gesture of appreciation, the dargah trustee granted Venkatarao 26 acres and 20 cents of land on permanent lease at a low rent. These lands are now managed by the Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple Trust.”

“During the ‘Masi Magam’ festival each year, the deity’s procession through Killai pauses at the dargah to honour the Sufi Saint, acknowledging the land grant. The Imam conducts prayers during the 30-minute stopover, offering 3 kg of rice, ₹501 in cash, silk shawl, fruits, and coconuts to the deity,” Mr. Saqaf noted.