A place near Indo-Pak border called Binjaur wherein lies the tomb of Laila-Majnu

While many great stories remain untold, a few become so famous that they continue to ignite the spark of unconditional love in the heart of generations to come. One such love story was of Laila and Majnu–the legendary lovers. Numerous poets and filmmakers have sung the saga of Laila and Majnu, but a vast majority of people are hardly aware of the fact that there is a mausoleum of the couple in Binjaur, a prominent village located 11 km from Anupgarh in Sri Ganganagar district of Rajasthan.
There are several legends stating how the two lovers came to be buried in Binjaur. Some say that Laila and Majnu eloped from Sindh (now in Pakistan) to escape from the antagonist forces opposing their union, and settled in modern day’s Binjaur region. When they died, they were buried close to each other and a memorial was made.

Another legend reveals that Laila and Qais (Majnu’s real name) ran away from Sindh to Rajasthan, but could not survive thirst whilst trying to find a safe refuge. They died in the desert and when found by Laila’s family, they were given a final resting place in Binjaur.
Today, the tomb of Laila-Majnu has turned into a magnet for people seeking blessings for success in love and marriage. A special fair is held at the tomb site in the month of June and many people come with the hope of fulfillment of their wishes.

Not the real tomb?

Contrary to the general belief, it has been reported that the mausoleum does not really belong to Laila-Majnu. Rani Raisikh, who was one of the first attendants of the tomb, reportedly said that the tomb belongs to a saint and his disciple and not the famous lovers. The mausoleum was built as a mark of mutual love that the master and disciple had towards each other. However, given the fact that Binjaur is close to the Indo-Pak border, it is likely that the story of Laila and Majnu is more authentic.

Tomb of Laila Majnu

The mausoleum forms a portion of an old graveyard. Earlier, the graves were covered by a shed. When people heard of miracles occurring by the grace of the two graves, they started thronging the site.

During the June mela, the devotees hold public feasts or langar to feed everyone free of cost. Sufi music programmes are also held in the premises to celebrate the union of two intertwined hearts.

It is said that the tomb was opened for the citizens of Pakistan living at the other side of the border before the Kargil war.

What else to see in Binjaur?

There is more to explore in Binjaur, interesting enough to spend a day here.

Bror

Bror village finds interest among history lovers. Here, remains of the Indus Valley Civilisation, artefacts, skeletal remains etc. have been dug from the earth.



Hindumalkot Border

The Hindumalkot border divides India and Pakistan. The border lies 25 km from Sri Ganganagar and is a popular tourist attraction to be visited during the day.

Buddha Johad Gurudwara

Situated in Dabla village in Ganganagar, this is a historical Gurudwara. It is famous for historical paintings and monuments.

How to reach Binjaur?

By air
The nearest airport is Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International airport in Amritsar. This airport is closest to Sri Ganganagar (271 km), and tourists can hire a cab from the airport to reach Binjaur.

By road
NH-15 extends through Sri Ganganagar and many buses ply on this route from different cities in North India.

By train
It is easy to visit Binjaur from Delhi, Bathinda, Haridwar, Rewari, Nanded and other cities by Sri Ganganagar - Hanumangarh broad gauge line.