LAHORE: The Punjab government has declared a local public holiday in Lahore on Monday, August 26, in honor of the Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh Hajveri, also known as Data Sahab. The holiday will apply to all government offices in Lahore, except for the Punjab Civil Secretariat, its Attached Departments, and Regional Offices. Educational institutions, district offices, and the Deputy Commissioner’s office will also remain closed on this day.
Urs Celebrations
The Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali Hajveri (RA) is an annual event observed according to the Islamic calendar from the 18th to the 20th of Safar. This year, the three-day celebrations are scheduled from August 24 to August 26 at Data Darbar. The event is expected to draw thousands of devotees, who will gather to pay homage to the saint and participate in various religious and cultural activities.
Preparations and Security Measures
In preparation for the Urs, the Auqaf Department has allocated Rs13.5 million for langar (free communal meals) and other related activities. The celebrations were officially inaugurated on August 24 by Deputy Prime Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar.
To ensure the safety of attendees, comprehensive security measures have been implemented. These include the installation of 144 CCTV cameras, the establishment of a central control room, and the placement of 18 LCD screens around the venue to monitor the events. Additionally, walkthrough gates and extra CCTV cameras have been installed both inside and around the shrine to enhance security.
Court Closures
In alignment with the observance of this significant religious event, both session courts and civil courts in Lahore will be closed on August 26. This closure is intended to allow the public to participate in the Urs without being hindered by legal proceedings.
Historical Significance
Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh, a revered Persian Sufi and scholar of the 11th century, was born in Ghazni, Afghanistan, in 990 AD. He later settled in Lahore, where he devoted his life to spreading Islam throughout South Asia. His shrine in Lahore remains a central pilgrimage site for devotees.
Event Highlights
The Urs will feature a variety of religious activities, including National Mehfil-e-Naat, Qawwali performances, Tableeghi sessions, and spiritual gatherings. Esteemed Naat Khawans, Ulema, and intellectuals will participate, offering their insights and prayers centered on the Holy Prophet (PBUH), Hazrat Ali Hajveri (RA), and other saints. Special arrangements have been made to ensure that the celebrations proceed smoothly, with enhanced security and logistical support, underscoring the importance of the Urs in Lahore’s cultural and spiritual life.
