In a recent announcement, the interim Chief Minister (CM) of Punjab, Mohsin Naqvi, has declared a public holiday in Lahore on September 7, which falls on a Thursday. This holiday is in honor of the annual Urs (death anniversary) of Data Gunj Bakhsh Syed Ali Hajweri (RA), a revered Sufi saint.
The Urs celebrations are set to span three days, commencing on September 5, a Tuesday. A special feature of these celebrations is the provision of ‘Langar Khana,’ a community kitchen, where food will be served to all attendees, regardless of their background or status.
Furthermore, the interim government, under the leadership of CM Mohsin Naqvi, is taking steps to ensure a memorable Urs. This includes arranging a Mehfil-e-Samaa, a gathering where some of the finest qawwals (devotional singers) will perform to captivate the audience with their soulful renditions.
CM Naqvi also emphasized that comprehensive preparations will be made for Chehlum, processions, and the Urs event as a whole.
In terms of managing the expected increase in traffic during the festivities, the interim CM assured that a well-thought-out traffic plan is in place. Additionally, once security measures are in order, parking facilities will be provided to accommodate the needs of those attending the Urs. Moreover, preparations are on the horizon for expanding Data Darbar, a significant religious site in Lahore.
As the city gears up for these special celebrations, residents and visitors alike can look forward to a public holiday and a vibrant display of faith, music, and communal harmony during the Urs of Data Gunj Bakhsh Syed Ali Hajweri (RA).
