“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 important 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 famous 13th-century Sufi saint, poet, and philosopher who is well-known for his deep spiritual impact on people. His Urs, which is the anniversary of his passing, is one of the biggest spiritual events in South Asia. This three-day celebration takes place in Sehwan Sharif and features Quran readings, special prayers, and lively qawwali music. This year, many devotees from all over Pakistan and nearby 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 really important 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 set up special train services to help devotees travel.
The public holiday is likely to affect significantly local shops and transportation. However, it also allows people to share cultures and think deeply about their beliefs. The Urs celebrations honour the lessons of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar and offer a place for followers to ask for blessings and pray for peace and good fortune.
The declaration of a public holiday for the Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar shows Sindh’s importance of 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 proves how meaningful these gatherings are for building community and strengthening spiritual bonds.
