Syed Maharaj Family has been serving as Khadim-e-Khwaja at the blessed Dargah sharif Huzoor Khwaja Garib Nawaz (R.A.), Ajmer Sharif. Our family continues the sacred tradition of welcoming pilgrims (Zaireen) with sincerity, humility, and devotion, offering guidance for Ziyarat, Dua, Chadar, Mannat, Langar, and family assistance from last 800 plus years . Every visitor to the Darbar of Huzoor Garib Nawaz is treated as our honoured guest.
“Maharaj” is not our caste – it is a title of love given to our great-grandfather Peer Syed Zahoor Mia Maharaj (1875) by the devotees in undivided Punjab. He served all communities equally, so people called him “Maharaj” out of respect. We have kept it for 150 years as a mark of khidmat and humility, not superiority.
Peer Syed Zahoor Mia Maharaj
Great-Grandfather | Approx. 1875
The earliest recorded elder in our direct lineage is Peer
Syed Zahoor Mia Maharaj, whose life became the foundation of our family’s spiritual identity. He was a respected spiritual personality whose followers extended throughout Undivided Punjab, Devotees travelled long distances to seek his prayers, blessings, and guidance before and after performing Ziyarat at the blessed shrine of Khwaja Garib Nawaz (R.A.). It was his devotees who lovingly began addressing him as “Maharaj.” The title was never official nor hereditary; rather, it reflected the affection, respect, and trust people placed in him. Over time, “Maharaj” became permanently associated with our family and remains a reminder that true honour comes through humility, service, and devotion. His life continues to inspire every generation of our family.
Grandfather | Approx. 1900
Among the most distinguished personalities in our family’s history is Alhaj Syed Yusuf Mia Maharaj, whose remarkable life united religious devotion, public service, and unwavering dedication to humanity. According to our preserved family records and historical photographs, he was blessed to perform the sacred pilgrimage of Haj twenty-four times (24 Haj) during his lifetime, an extraordinary honour that remains one of the greatest distinctions in our family’s history. His service extended beyond the Darbar of Garib Nawaz (R.A.). During India’s struggle for independence, he actively participated in the Quit India Movement, reflecting his commitment to both faith and nation. During the tenure of Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi, he served as Director of Mogul Shipping (Mogul Line Ltd.), associated with the transportation of Indian Haj pilgrims to the Holy Land. He also served as a Life Member of the Dargah Committee, Ajmer Sharif, contributing to the welfare and administration of one of India’s most revered spiritual institutions.
Father | Born: 1927
The legacy of Khidmat continued through Haji Syed Idris Mai Maharaj, the eldest son of Alhaj Syed Yusuf Mia Maharaj. He dedicated himself in serving pilgrims at the blessed Dargah Sharif of Hazrat Khwaja Garib Nawaz (R.A.). Known for his gentle nature, humility, and deep knowledge of the customs and traditions of the Darbar Sharif, he welcomed thousands of devotees throughout his lifetime with warmth, sincerity, and heartfelt prayers. His daily routine revolved around serving pilgrims, guiding families, preserving the etiquette of the shrine, and maintaining the values inherited from his forefathers. For him, every visitor was a guest of Garib Nawaz, deserving respect regardless of religion, language, or nationality.
Born: 1961
Today, the responsibility of preserving this sacred family tradition rests with Syed Akram Maharaj, of our direct family lineage. Following the teachings of his father and grandfather, he continues to welcome pilgrims from across India and around the world with humility, sincerity, and respect. For him, Khidmat means serving every devotee with patience, compassion, and gratitude.
He personally makes Dua and help pilgrims with: Complete Ziyarat Guidance, offering Chadar and flowers, Historical Information, Traditional Etiquette of the Dargah Sharif His greatest prayer is that every visitor leaves Ajmer Sharif with peace in their heart and renewed faith.
Born: 1992
Representing the fifth generation, Syed Humza Mia Maharaj now stands beside his father in continuing the family’s sacred responsibility. Having received English-medium education while remaining deeply rooted in traditional Islamic values, he assists both Indian and international pilgrims visiting Ajmer Sharif. His work reflects the balance between preserving centuries-old traditions and serving the needs of today’s global community. He believes that Khidmat should always be performed with humility, honesty, and respect.
