The 983rd annual Urs of renowned Sufi saint Hazrat Syed Ali bin Usman Al-Hajveri, widely known as Data Ganj Bakhsh, began in Lahore on Sunday. Thousands of devotees gathered at the shrine as the three-day spiritual event commenced under strict security arrangements.
The annual Urs is one of Pakistan’s largest religious gatherings. Every year, devotees from across the country visit the shrine to participate in prayers and spiritual activities.
Traditional Chadar-Poshi Marks Opening Ceremony
The celebrations officially started with the traditional chadar-poshi ceremony.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar attended the event as the chief guest. He placed a ceremonial chadar at the shrine and offered prayers for Pakistan’s peace, stability, and prosperity.
Several senior provincial officials also attended the opening ceremony. They included Provincial Ministers Bilal Yasin, Mian Marghoob Ahmad, and Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman. Special Assistant to the Punjab Chief Minister Ali Dar, Secretary Auqaf Ahsan Bhatta, and other Auqaf Department officials were also present.
Devotees Participate in Spiritual Gatherings
Religious activities are continuing throughout the three-day Urs.
Devotees from different parts of Pakistan have arrived in Lahore to attend prayer sessions, religious gatherings, and other spiritual events at the shrine. The annual celebrations continue to attract large crowds seeking blessings and spiritual reflection.
Extensive Security Arrangements in Place
Authorities have implemented comprehensive security measures to ensure the safety of visitors.
More than 5,000 police and law enforcement personnel have been deployed across the shrine and surrounding areas. The security plan aims to facilitate the smooth conduct of the event, which is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of pilgrims during the three-day celebrations.
Officials have also coordinated traffic management to reduce congestion around the shrine and maintain the steady movement of visitors.
Public Facilities for Visitors
In addition to security, the administration has arranged several public services for devotees attending the Urs.
Medical assistance teams remain available throughout the event. Sanitation services have also been strengthened to maintain cleanliness in and around the shrine.
Furthermore, free food and milk are being distributed to visitors during the celebrations. These arrangements are intended to provide comfort and convenience for the large number of pilgrims expected over the three days.
The 983rd annual Urs will continue with religious gatherings, prayers, and spiritual activities as devotees pay tribute to Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh and participate in one of Pakistan’s most significant religious events.
