Lahore Declares Public Holiday for Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh’s Urs on August 26

Lahore Declares Public Holiday for Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh’s Urs on August 26

In a significant cultural and religious observance, the Punjab government has declared a public holiday in Lahore on Monday, August 26, 2024. This holiday is in honor of the 981st Annual Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh, one of the most revered Sufi saints in the Islamic world. The announcement was made by the Services and General Administration Department (Welfare Wing) to facilitate the local population in participating in the Urs celebrations.

Countdown to Public Holiday – Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh

Key Aspects of Public Holiday for Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh's Urs

Date

August 26, 2024

Occasion

Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh

Location

Lahore, Pakistan

Declared By

Punjab Government

Public Impact

Public Holiday Declared

Religious Significance

Commemoration of the revered Sufi saint

The Urs, a traditional Sufi observance marking the death anniversary of a saint, will take place at the Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh shrine in Lahore from August 24 to 26. The celebrations include various spiritual and community activities such as Quran recitations, religious lectures, and the distribution of food (langar) to devotees. The Auqaf Department of Punjab has allocated approximately Rs. 13.5 million for organizing these events. They have also implemented comprehensive security measures to ensure the safety of thousands of attendees. This includes the installation of 144 CCTV cameras around the shrine and the setup of 18 LCD screens to monitor the area.

Urs Event Schedule

  • August 24, 10:00 AM: Opening Ceremony by Deputy Prime Minister
  • August 24, 1:00 PM: Special Prayers at the Shrine
  • August 25, 11:00 AM: Religious Lectures and Quran Recitations
  • August 26, 12:00 PM: Langar Distribution to Devotees
  • August 26, 5:00 PM: Closing Ceremony
Lahore Declares Public Holiday for Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh’s Urs on August 26

Public offices, schools, and colleges across Lahore will remain closed on August 26. However, key government operations, such as those conducted by the Punjab Civil Secretariat and its affiliated departments, will continue as usual. This exception ensures that essential administrative functions remain uninterrupted even as the city observes this important religious holiday.

The Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for many Muslims in Lahore and beyond. Hazrat Ali Hujwiri, known as Data Ganj Bakhsh, was a Persian Sufi saint whose teachings have had a profound impact on Sufi traditions and Islamic spirituality. His shrine, located in the heart of Lahore, attracts millions of pilgrims annually, making it one of the most visited spiritual sites in Pakistan. The Urs is not only a religious event but also a time for communal gathering, reflection, and charity, as pilgrims come together to seek blessings and spiritual solace​(The Nation, The Opinion).

The declaration of a public holiday underlines the importance of the Urs in preserving cultural and religious heritage. It also provides an opportunity for the community to come together in celebration and remembrance. As Lahore prepares to host thousands of visitors, authorities are working diligently to ensure that the event runs smoothly, prioritizing both the safety and spiritual experience of the attendees.

Location Map

Testimonials from Past Participants

"Attending the Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh has always been a spiritual experience for me. The sense of community and peace is unparalleled." – Ali Khan
"The arrangements were excellent last year. The organizers ensured everyone's safety and comfort. A highly recommended event for spiritual seekers." – Fatima Raza

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there an entry fee for the Urs?

A: No, the Urs is open to the public and free of charge.

Q: What is the recommended dress code?

A: Modest and respectful attire is encouraged, considering the religious nature of the event.

Q: Are there facilities for people with disabilities?

A: Yes, there are ramps and accessible facilities for people with disabilities.

Lahore Public Holiday Quiz - Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh’s Urs


Yes
No


Installation of CCTV cameras
Arranging Langar (free food)
Holding a parade
Setting up a control room

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