“Public Holiday Declared to Honor the Annual Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar”
Karachi, February 18, 2025—The Sindh government has declared February 19, 2025, a public holiday to celebrate the annual Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar. This essential spiritual occasion will be observed with a day off throughout the province, meaning that all government offices, semi-government offices, and schools will be closed.
- Public Holiday: February 19, 2025
- Event: Annual Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar
- Location: Sehwan Sharif, Sindh, Pakistan
- Significance: A major spiritual gathering attracting thousands of devotees
- Security Measures: Over 5,000 police personnel deployed
Public Holiday for Lal Shahbaz Qalandar’s Urs & Background and Significance
Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar was a renowned 13th-century Sufi saint, poet, and philosopher, famous for his profound spiritual influence on people. His Urs, which marks the anniversary of his passing, is one of the most significant spiritual events in South Asia. This three-day celebration, held in Sehwan Sharif, features Quran readings, special prayers, and lively qawwali music. This year, many devotees from Pakistan and neighboring countries are expected to attend the event.
Bilawal Bhutto’s Message on Lal Shahbaz Qalandar’s Urs
Syed Ali Raza, a devotee from Karachi
- Syed Ali Raza, a devotee from Karachi: “The Urs of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar is a significant spiritual event. It gathers people to celebrate love and togetherness. The public holiday is a nice way for everyone to join in the festivities.”
Dr. Farah Khan, a Sufi scholar
- Dr. Farah Khan, a Sufi scholar: “Lal Shahbaz Qalandar’s teachings of love, peace, and tolerance resonate deeply with people. This holiday is a recognition of his enduring legacy and the importance of spiritual gatherings in our society.”
Security and Preparations
The Sindh government has implemented firm security plans to prepare for the big event. More than 5,000 police officers, including special teams from the Counter-Terrorism Department, Bomb Disposal Squad, and Rapid Response Force, are stationed in and around Sehwan. Additionally, officials have established special train services to facilitate the travel of devotees.
The public holiday is likely to impact local shops and transportation significantly. However, it also allows people to share cultures and think deeply about their beliefs. The Urs celebrations honour the teachings of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar and provide a platform for followers to seek blessings and pray for peace and prosperity.
The declaration of a public holiday for the Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar shows the importance of Sindh’s spiritual traditions. When thousands of followers come together to celebrate, it emphasises the saint’s lasting impact and the values he stood for. This public holiday demonstrates the significance of these gatherings in fostering community and deepening spiritual connections.
