The 982nd Urs of the revered Sufi saint Hazrat Ali Hajveri, widely known as Data Ganj Bakhsh, commenced in Lahore on Wednesday, drawing thousands of devotees from across Pakistan. The three-day annual event is being held at Data Darbar, one of the most significant Sufi shrines in South Asia.
The inauguration ceremony was led by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, who laid a traditional chador at the saint’s shrine and offered Fateha. The event began with religious rituals and prayers, marking the official opening of the Urs celebrations.
Federal Ministers Join Ceremony, Public Holiday Declared
Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan and Punjab Minister for Food and Housing Bilal Yasin were also present at the opening ceremony. Both ministers welcomed Ishaq Dar and joined him in the inaugural rituals and prayers at the shrine.
Every year, the Urs attracts large numbers of pilgrims from Punjab and other provinces, all gathering to pay homage to the Sufi saint who is celebrated for his teachings of love, tolerance, and spiritual enlightenment.
In light of the massive turnout, strict security measures have been put in place around Data Darbar, with law enforcement agencies coordinating to ensure the safety and smooth flow of the event. Surveillance systems and crowd management strategies are being actively monitored throughout the festivities.
To facilitate public participation and manage the influx of devotees, the Lahore district administration has declared Friday, August 15, as a public holiday.
The Urs of Data Ganj Bakhsh remains a deeply spiritual event, celebrated with great reverence, drawing people from all walks of life seeking blessings and spiritual connection.
