History of Goripalayam Dargah (Madurai)

"The name Goripalayam derives from the Persian word ""gor"" (grave), referring to the twin green-domed tombs of 13th-century Islamic rulers Sultan Alauddin Badusha and Sultan Shamsuddin Badusha, who migrated from Oman to spread Islam in Madurai. These brothers governed northern Madurai under the legacy of Qutb Sultan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed Badusha of Erwadi, establishing one of Tamil Nadu’s earliest Islamic regimes. The dargah also holds ties to Kazi Syed Tajuddin, the royal Islamic jurist whose descendants still serve as Madurai’s official Kazis—a unbroken 700-year tradition upheld even by the Pandiyas, Nayaks, and British. An ancient Tamil inscription on the dargah campus adds to its historical allure. key hightlights Twin Green Tombs – Stunning 13th-century mausoleums of Omani-origin Sufi rulers. Living Legacy – Only dargah where descendants of Kazi Syed Tajuddin still serve as state-appointed Islamic jurists. Ancient Inscription – Rare Tamil epigraphic record planted on the dargah grounds. Riverfront Serenity – Picturesque location on Vaigai’s northern banks, visible from A.V. Bridge. Interfaith Harmony – Revered by Muslims and Hindus alike for blessings (barakah). Sufi Festivals – Grand Urs celebrations with devotional music (qawwali) and free feasts. Architectural Gem – Persian-influenced domes and calligraphic art."