Data Baba Mazar Sharif Patharchapuri | Sufi Shrine, Urs Mela & Religious Heritage of Birbhum

Data Baba Mazar Sharif, located at Patharchapuri in Birbhum district, West Bengal, is a well-known Sufi shrine associated with Hazrat Data Mehboob Shah Wali, popularly known as Data Baba or Data Saheb. The shrine is an important religious and cultural destination in the Birbhum region and attracts devotees and visitors throughout the year. 

According to the Birbhum District Administration, Data Saheb was a Muslim saint named Shah Meheboob who was traditionally associated with healing through the application of ash. The district administration records that he died on 10 Chaitra 1298 in the Bengali calendar. 

The shrine is also closely connected with the Patharchapuri Mela, held every year around the Bengali month of Chaitra to commemorate Data Baba's death anniversary. Historical records note that the organisation of the fair began in 1918, while the Birbhum District Census Handbook describes the event as an important annual fair associated with Data Baba. 

Patharchapuri is also known for its inclusive religious atmosphere, with visitors from different communities coming to the shrine. This inter-community character is frequently associated with the Sufi traditions of the place. 

History

The Mazar Maintenance Committee at Patharchapuri was established in 1918 under the initiative of the then district administration, with Khan Bahadur, the Zamindar of Sekedda, recorded as its first president. In 1933, Bijoychand Mahtab of Bardhaman Raj gifted land associated with the shrine. 

The shrine and annual fair subsequently developed into an important religious gathering in Birbhum. Historical and research sources describe the Urs and fair as an important part of the cultural landscape of Patharchapuri. 

Location

Patharchapuri, Birbhum, West Bengal - 731126, India

The current local business listing identifies Data Baba Mazar Sharif as a shrine in Patharchapuri. Data Baba Mazar Sarif

Patharchapuri is located in Suri I CD Block of Suri Sadar subdivision, Birbhum district, and is approximately 10-12 km from Suri according to the available sources. 

How to Reach

By Train: The nearest major railway station is Suri Railway Station. From Suri, visitors can continue by road to Patharchapuri. 

By Road: Patharchapuri can be reached by private car, taxi and local bus services from Suri and surrounding areas.

From Tarapith: One travel source places Patharchapuri approximately 55 km from Tarapith. 

This Place's Special Attraction

Data Baba Mazar & Patharchapuri Urs Mela

The principal attraction is the Mazar of Data Baba, along with the annual Urs and Patharchapuri fair held around Chaitra. The event combines religious observance with a large local fair and cultural gathering.