Panic
broke out at the historic Ajmer Dargah on Saturday (May 9) afternoon after a young man suddenly jumped into the famous “Badi Degh” of Khwaja Garib Nawaz and allegedly attempted to steal cash offerings kept inside. The dramatic incident took place in front of devotees and staff members and was also caught on CCTV, leaving many stunned. Initially, people believed the man might be mentally disturbed, but chaos erupted when he allegedly began stuffing currency notes from the degh into his pockets before being overpowered by Dargah staff after a brief struggle.
WhatsApp Video 2026-05-10 at 9
Chaos Inside Historic Shrine
According to reports, the incident took place around 3 pm when devotees were moving through the Dargah premises. The giant degh contained dry rice, dry fruits, cash offerings and other items placed by devotees.Witnesses said the youth suddenly climbed up to the massive vessel using an iron ladder and jumped inside. For a few moments, bystanders struggled to understand what was happening.However, panic spread quickly after the man allegedly began picking up cash offerings and putting them into his pockets.A Dargah committee staff member immediately jumped into the degh to stop him. The accused reportedly resisted and scuffled with the staff member as a crowd gathered around the spot.After considerable effort, staff members managed to pull him out of the degh.
Police Detain Youth
Police from the Dargah police station reached the spot soon after receiving information and detained the youth for questioning.During interrogation, police reportedly found that the man was mentally weak. He was later released with a warning.The “Badi Degh” holds immense historical importance at the Ajmer Dargah. According to history, Mughal emperor Akbar had the massive vessel built after visiting the shrine on foot following his victory at Chittorgarh. The degh can prepare nearly 3,200 kilograms of langar at one time during Urs celebrations, feeding thousands of devotees.