'Even during my visit (to South Africa), I have had many people approaching me for assistance with wayward sons. They say that while they have all the material wealth that they could want, they have no peace in their hearts because of this. I have encouraged them to send their children to us so we can return them with new thinking on morality and spirituality.'

Jilani said facilities at the shrine had also assisted many people with illnesses that could not be cured by doctors. He cited the case of a young South African man who he said had suffered for 16 years from an inexplicable ailment but was now back with his family.

'We welcome people from any religion, and parents will just have to bear the costs of getting their children there and back. All other lodging and boarding needs we will take care of. Of course, any sightseeing to Agra or Delhi or Ajmer will have to be on their own account,' Jilani concluded with a smile.