LAHORE: The Punjab government has announced a local public holiday in Lahore for Monday, August 26, to mark the Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh Hajveri, also known as Data Sahab. This decision affects all government offices in Lahore, with exceptions for the Punjab Civil Secretariat, its Attached Departments, and Regional Offices. Educational institutions, district offices, and the deputy commissioner’s office will also be closed on August 26.
Urs Celebrations
The Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali Hajveri (RA) is observed annually 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. This significant event attracts thousands of devotees who gather to honor the saint’s memory and partake in various religious and cultural activities.
Preparations and Security
In preparation for the Urs, the Auqaf Department has allocated Rs13.5 million for langar (free communal meals) and other related events. Auqaf Secretary, addressing the media, outlined the extensive preparations being made, including the inauguration of the celebrations by Deputy Prime Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar on August 24.
To ensure the safety of attendees, robust security measures have been put in place. These include the installation of 144 CCTV cameras, a central control room, and 18 LCD screens around the venue to monitor the events. Walkthrough gates and additional CCTV cameras have also been installed inside and around the shrine.
Court Closures
Both session courts and civil courts in Lahore will be closed on August 26 to facilitate the observance of this significant religious event. This closure allows individuals to participate in the Urs without interference from legal proceedings.
Historical Significance
Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh, a Persian Sufi and scholar of the 11th century, was born in Ghazni, Afghanistan, in 990 AD. He settled in Lahore and dedicated his life to spreading Islam in South Asia. His shrine in Lahore remains a major pilgrimage site for devotees.
Event Highlights
The Urs will feature a variety of religious activities, including National Mehfil-e-Naat, Qawali performances, Tableeghi sessions, and spiritual gatherings. Renowned Naat Khawans, Ulema, and intellectuals will participate, offering their insights and prayers related to 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, reflecting the importance of the Urs in the cultural and spiritual life of Lahore.
