Hazrat Shamshalam Dargah Extends Warm Hospitality to Agniveer Aspirants
Syed Ashraf Raza Praised for Providing Free Food and Accommodation During State-Level Agnipath Army Recruitment Rally
“شادیوں سے سپاہیوں کی خدمات تک: درگاہ حضرت شمسِ عالم حسینی کا شمسیا شادی محل مستقبل کے فوجیوں کے لئے اپنے دروازے کھول رہا ہے”
Raichur, Karnataka: In a remarkable display of generosity and service, the Hazrat Shamshalam Dargah, under the stewardship of its Mutawalli Syed Ashraf Raza, has opened its doors to hundreds of Agniveer aspirants arriving from various districts to participate in the state-level Agnipath Army recruitment rally. From August 12 to 25, the Dargah’s Shamsia Shadi Mahal is offering free meals and accommodation to candidates — a gesture that has earned widespread appreciation.
Speaking about the initiative, Syed Ashraf Raza expressed deep satisfaction in serving the young men preparing to dedicate their lives to the nation.
“It is an honour and a source of joy for me to serve the Agniveer aspirants who will become the nation’s future soldiers. I thank the district administration and the Waqf Board for giving me the opportunity to contribute to this noble cause,” he said.
Support for Agniveer Candidates from Across Karnataka
The Agnipath rally has drawn over 12,000 candidates from across Karnataka. Officials have ensured food and lodging arrangements at various locations in Raichur. The Hazrat Shamshalam Dargah has taken full responsibility for candidates arriving from Belagavi district, accommodating between 150 and 200 aspirants daily at Shamsia Shadi Mahal.
What makes this effort unique is that the Shadi Mahal — typically rented out for weddings — has been entirely dedicated to serving these young candidates during the recruitment period.
“Providing quality meals and proper rest facilities to our guests is not just hospitality — it is the duty of the people of Raichur,” remarked Syed Ashraf Raza, welcoming the Belagavi candidates with pink roses before personally serving them meals.
Administrative Backing and Inspection
The initiative was carried out in coordination with the district administration. Assistant Commissioner Gajanand Bale and Deputy Director of the Food Department Nazeer Ahmad visited Shamsia Shadi Mahal to inspect and appreciate the arrangements.
District Waqf Advisory Committee officer Saleem Pasha commended the gesture, noting that such community-driven service plays a vital role in ensuring that candidates are physically and mentally ready for the demanding recruitment process.
“I hope all Agniveer aspirants score high in the rally, secure recruitment into the army, and serve the nation with pride,” he said.
Commitment to Nation-Building
The rally aims to recruit dedicated and disciplined youth into the armed forces. By meeting their basic needs, initiatives like the one led by Syed Ashraf Raza ensure that the aspirants can focus fully on their tests and training without worrying about food or shelter.
The Shamsia Shadi Mahal will continue to serve meals and offer lodging until August 25, after which it will resume regular functions. For now, however, its halls echo with camaraderie, service, and the shared aspiration of contributing to India’s defence.
Key Quotes
Syed Ashraf Raza, Mutawalli, Hazrat Shamshalam Dargah
“It is an honour and a source of joy for me to serve the Agniveer aspirants who will soon become the nation’s future soldiers.”
“I thank the district administration and Waqf Board for giving me this opportunity to contribute to this noble cause.”
“Providing meals and rest to our guests is not just hospitality — it is our duty as citizens.”
Saleem Pasha, District Waqf Advisory Committee Officer
“This initiative ensures that candidates can focus on their performance without worrying about basic needs.”
Gajanand Bale, Assistant Commissioner
“Such community-driven service is an example of how people’s participation strengthens national events.”
