Nawabshah, Pakistan: As the 753rd annual Urs of the revered Sufi saint Syed Asghar Ali Shah, famously known as Sakhi Jam Datar, commences on November 11, 2024, the local government has declared a public holiday in Nawabshah. The Deputy Commissioner of Nawabshah, Shehryar Gul Memon, announced the holiday to honor this significant cultural and spiritual event, allowing the people of Nawabshah to participate fully in the festivities.

location of Dargah Sakhi Jam Datar

The Legacy of Sakhi Jam Datar

Sakhi Jam Datar, also known as Syed Asghar Ali Shah, holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Sindh, known for his life of compassion, generosity, and unwavering dedication to serving humanity. His shrine in Jam Sahib, Nawabshah, attracts thousands of devotees every year, not only from Sindh but from across Pakistan. The annual Urs marks the saint’s death anniversary and celebrates his teachings, which emphasized love, unity, and peace among all people.

Sakhi Jam Datar is revered not only as a spiritual guide but also as a symbol of Sindh’s enduring Sufi heritage. His message of inclusivity and selflessness continues to resonate with generations, fostering a deep spiritual connection between his followers and the broader community.

The 753rd Urs Celebrations and Arrangements

The Urs, spanning three days from November 11 to November 13, is a well-coordinated event involving various cultural, spiritual, and recreational activities. In collaboration with local organizations, the district administration has put in place extensive arrangements to ensure smooth celebrations. Local officials, including Commissioner Shaheed Benazirabad Division Syed Mohammad Sajjad Haider and Manager Awqaf Ahmed Ali Brohi, will inaugurate the event, kicking off a series of engaging programs.

Highlights of the Urs celebrations include:

1. Ceremonial Chadar Procession: The festivities begin with a vibrant chadar (ceremonial cloth) procession led by Anjuman Qalandri Sakhi Jam Datar, as they carry the chadar from the main bus stop to the shrine. The act of covering the shrine with the chadar symbolizes reverence and devotion to the saint.
2. Peace Conference: The shrine will host a peace conference, attended by religious figures, scholars, and dignitaries from various dargahs across Pakistan. This gathering aims to reinforce Sakhi Jam Datar’s message of peace and harmony, encouraging people to embrace unity and compassion.
3. Traditional Sports and Games: A key part of the celebrations, traditional sports such as kabaddi, horse racing, and wrestling will take place over the three days. These competitions, rooted in Sindhi culture, attract large audiences and instill a sense of camaraderie and community pride.
4. Artistic Performances: The final day will feature a Raag Rang and Shughar event, where Sindh’s famed folk singers and artists, including Shaman Ali Mirali and Farzana Behar, will perform. These performances honor the region’s rich artistic heritage and capture the festive spirit of the Urs, celebrating both the saint’s teachings and the culture of Sindh.

A Holiday for the People of Nawabshah

The announcement of a local holiday allows residents to participate fully in the Urs festivities, offering them the opportunity to connect with their spiritual roots and heritage. The event has become an annual occasion for reflection, renewal, and celebration, as the people of Sindh come together to honor Sakhi Jam Datar’s enduring legacy.

A Celebration of Sindhi Sufi Heritage

The Urs of Sakhi Jam Datar is more than just a commemoration; it represents a cherished part of Sindhi culture. The annual celebration brings together people from all walks of life, fostering unity and respect for Sindh’s spiritual heritage. Through this gathering, the teachings of Sakhi Jam Datar continue to inspire, reminding attendees of the values of kindness, love, and peace.

The public holiday is a testament to the profound respect and admiration for Sakhi Jam Datar and serves as a recognition of the saint’s lasting impact on the people of Sindh. As pilgrims gather at the shrine, the Urs becomes a powerful expression of devotion and cultural pride, highlighting the timeless relevance of Sakhi Jam Datar’s message.

Urs Celebrations to Begin in Kasur

KASUR – The historic city of Kasur is preparing to host the annual Urs Mubarak of the revered Sufi poet and philosopher, Baba Bulleh Shah. The three-day event, beginning tomorrow (Friday), will draw thousands of devotees and admirers from across the country to Bulleh Shah’s Mazar Sharif.

Local Holiday Announced for Urs

To facilitate participation, the Deputy Commissioner of Kasur, Captain (r) Aurangzeb Haider Khan, has announced a local holiday on Saturday, August 31, 2024. The official notification allows residents of Kasur to fully engage in the Urs activities, reflecting the event’s importance to the community.

A Celebration of Sufi Culture and Heritage

The Baba Bulleh Shah Urs is not just a religious observance but a vibrant cultural event. It will feature poetry recitations, musical performances, and spiritual gatherings, celebrating the rich Sufi traditions and the timeless teachings of Bulleh Shah.

Renovation and Beautification of the Shrine

Devotees have expressed gratitude for the Punjab government’s efforts in allocating significant funds for the renovation and beautification of Bulleh Shah’s shrine. However, some have raised concerns about the slow progress of these projects, urging the authorities to expedite the work.

Special Arrangements Amid Security Concerns

In light of recent law and order situations, special arrangements have been made to ensure the safety and comfort of the pilgrims. Enhanced security measures and additional facilities will accommodate the large number of visitors expected during the Urs.

School Holidays to Facilitate Participation

To further support the celebrations, the local government has announced three consecutive holidays for schools in the district. This allows students and families to fully participate in the Urs festivities, making it a community-wide event.

The Bottom Line

The annual Baba Bulleh Shah Urs is a significant event that unites people from all walks of life in a shared celebration of Sufism. As Kasur prepares for this momentous occasion, the spirit of Baba Bulleh Shah’s teachings continues to resonate, promoting messages of love, peace, and tolerance.

In honour of the annual Urs of Hazrat Ali Hajveri, also known as Data Ganj Bakhsh, the Lahore High Court has declared a holiday for courts on August 26. This announcement, approved by Acting Chief Justice Abid Aziz Sheikh, will see both session courts and civil courts in Lahore closed on this day, allowing the people of Lahore to participate in the commemoration of one of Pakistan’s most revered saints.

Who Was Data Ganj Bakhsh?

Hazrat Ali Hajveri, widely known as Data Ganj Bakhsh, was a Persian Sufi and scholar who played a crucial role in spreading Islam and Sufism in South Asia. Born in Ghazni (modern-day Afghanistan) in the early 11th century, he later settled in Lahore, where he spent the remainder of his life teaching, preaching, and writing about Islamic mysticism.

His most famous work, “Kashf al-Mahjub” (The Revelation of the Veiled), is considered one of the earliest comprehensive texts on Sufism, offering deep insights into the spiritual practices and beliefs of the time. Data Ganj Bakhsh’s teachings emphasized love, tolerance, and the importance of spiritual purity, which resonated with the masses and made him a beloved figure in the region.

Data Ganj Bakhsh passed away in Lahore in the late 11th century, and his shrine, located near the Bhati Gate of the Walled City of Lahore, has since become a major pilgrimage site. The shrine attracts millions of devotees annually, particularly during the Urs, when his followers gather to pay homage to the saint.

The Urs of Hazrat Ali Hajveri

The Urs of Data Ganj Bakhsh is an annual event commemorating the death anniversary of the saint. “Urs” in Arabic means “wedding,” symbolizing the union of the saint with the Divine. The event is marked by three days of prayers, recitations of the Quran, Sufi music (Qawwali), and free distribution of food (Langar) to all visitors.

Thousands of devotees from across Pakistan and beyond converge on Lahore to participate in the Urs. The shrine is adorned with lights and decorations, and the atmosphere is one of spiritual devotion and communal harmony. The event is not only a religious observance but also a cultural festival that showcases the rich heritage of Sufism in the region.

During the Urs, special prayers are offered for peace, prosperity, and the well-being of the community. Many visitors seek the saint’s blessings for personal matters, believing in his spiritual presence and intercession.

The Holiday Announcement

Recognizing the significance of this event, the Lahore High Court has declared August 26 a public holiday for all courts in the city. The official notification, signed by Acting Chief Justice Abid Aziz Sheikh, stipulates that both session courts and civil courts in Lahore will be closed on this day. This decision allows the legal fraternity, as well as the general public, to fully participate in the Urs without the burden of court proceedings.

The holiday also underscores the importance of the Urs in the cultural and religious fabric of Lahore. By granting a day off, the authorities are facilitating the smooth conduct of the event, ensuring that devotees can attend the shrine and partake in the ceremonies with ease.

Location and Significance

The shrine of Hazrat Ali Hajveri, located in the heart of Lahore, near the Bhati Gate, is one of the most visited sites in the city. It is not only a place of spiritual significance but also a symbol of Lahore’s historical and cultural identity. The shrine complex includes the saint’s mausoleum, a mosque, and various facilities for pilgrims.

Throughout the year, the shrine remains a hub of spiritual activity, attracting people from all walks of life. However, the Urs marks the peak of these activities, with the shrine witnessing an influx of devotees, scholars, and tourists. The event is also an opportunity for people to connect with their spiritual roots and reflect on the teachings of the great Sufi saint.

Conclusion

The holiday declared for the Urs of Data Ganj Bakhsh on August 26 is a testament to the enduring legacy of Hazrat Ali Hajveri. As Lahore prepares to observe this significant event, the city reflects on the teachings of love, tolerance, and spirituality that Data Ganj Bakhsh imparted to his followers. The closure of courts on this day will allow everyone to partake in the celebrations, ensuring that the saint’s message continues to inspire generations.

Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai, often revered as one of the greatest Sufi poets of Sindh, holds a significant place in the cultural and spiritual history of Pakistan. Born in 1689 in Hala Haveli, Sindh, he belonged to a prominent and scholarly family.

His father, Shah Habib, was a well-known spiritual leader, and from a young age, Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai was drawn to spirituality and the mystical teachings of Sufism.

Early Life and Education

Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai was immersed in the teachings of the Quran and Islamic jurisprudence early on, thanks to his father’s influence. However, it was his deep love for nature, music, and poetry that truly shaped his spiritual journey.

Unlike many scholars of his time, Latif’s education was not limited to formal schooling; he traveled extensively, seeking wisdom from nature and the common folk. His travels took him across the deserts, mountains, and rivers of Sindh, where he interacted with people from various walks of life, absorbing their stories, struggles, and spiritual practices.

Spiritual Journey

Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai’s poetry is deeply rooted in Sufi mysticism. He was profoundly influenced by the teachings of Sufi saints like Hazrat Shahbaz Qalandar and Hazrat Makhdoom Nooh. His poetry, compiled in the famous “Shah Jo Risalo,” is a testament to his spiritual journey, reflecting themes of divine love, devotion, and the search for God.

His verses are in Sindhi, and they beautifully blend metaphysical concepts with everyday life, making his work accessible to both the learned and the common people.Latif’s spiritual philosophy emphasized the oneness of God and the importance of love, compassion, and humility in the pursuit of divine truth.

He believed in the unity of all religions and preached tolerance and understanding among different communities. His teachings resonated with the masses, who found solace and guidance in his words.

Literary Contributions

Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai’s poetry is a rich tapestry of Sindhi folklore, music, and Sufi philosophy. The “Shah Jo Risalo” is his magnum opus, a collection of his poems that are divided into chapters, each dedicated to a different aspect of life and spirituality.

His poetry explores themes like the love of Radha and Krishna, the story of Sassi and Punnu, and the struggles of Marui, all of which are allegories for the soul’s journey towards the divine.

What sets Latif’s poetry apart is his ability to convey deep spiritual truths through simple, relatable language. His verses often revolve around the life of ordinary people, especially women, whom he saw as embodiments of purity and devotion. Through his poetry, he advocated for the dignity and respect of women, a message that was revolutionary for his time.

First publication of Shah jo Risalo

The Shah Jo Risalo was first published in 1866 by German philologist Ernest Trumpp, preserving Shah Abdul Latif’s poetry. German philologist Ernest Trumpp, posthumously honored with the Latif Award, authored the first Sindhi grammar book. Trumpp, sent to India in 1854 as a missionary, published his work in Leipzig, significantly contributing to Sindhi linguistic studies and preserving Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai’s poetry.

Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai was a revered saint, spiritual scholar, and one of the greatest poets of all time. His poetry, composed in the Sindhi language, is celebrated for its profound spiritual depth and cultural richness. He masterfully wove together the essence of seven iconic folk tales

• Umer-Marvi
• Noori-Jam Tamachi
• Sasui-Punhoon
• Moomal-Ranu
• Leela-Chanesar
• Suhni-Mehar
• Sorath-Raidyach

Each of the folk embodying timeless themes of love, sacrifice, and devotion. His work not only enriched Sindhi literature but also left an indelible mark on the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region.

Legacy

Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai passed away in 1752, but his legacy lives on. His final resting place in Bhit Shah, Sindh, has become a pilgrimage site for his followers, who gather every year to celebrate his life and teachings. The three-day annual urs, starting on Safar 14, is a major event in Sindh, where devotees from all over the region come to pay homage to the Sufi saint.

Latif’s influence extends beyond the spiritual realm; his poetry has played a crucial role in shaping Sindhi literature and music. His verses are sung in the traditional “waee” style, a form of Sindhi music that has been preserved and passed down through generations. His teachings continue to inspire poets, musicians, and spiritual seekers, making him an enduring symbol of Sindhi culture and Sufi mysticism.

Public Holiday in Sindh

In recognition of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai’s immense contribution to Sindhi culture and spirituality, the provincial government of Sindh has declared a public holiday on August 20, 2024, to mark his annual urs. According to a notification issued by the government, all government offices, autonomous bodies, semi-autonomous bodies, corporations, and local councils under the administrative control of the Sindh government will remain closed on this day, except for essential services.

Additionally, all government and private schools, colleges, and universities under the administrative control of the Sindh government will also remain closed.The declaration of a public holiday underscores the importance of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai’s legacy in the province. It provides an opportunity for people to reflect on his teachings, which continue to promote values of love, tolerance, and unity in a world that often seems divided.

Bottom line

Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, born on November 18, 1689, in Hala, Sindh, was not only a revered poet but also a profound saint whose work has profoundly influenced Sindhi culture. His poetry, rich in spiritual depth and cultural heritage, reflects his unparalleled understanding of divine love and human emotion. Is status as a great poet and saint is honored with a public holiday on August 20 each year, celebrating his enduring legacy and the deep impact he has had on Sindhi society. Bhitai passed away on January 1, 1752