The three-day celebrations of the 982nd annual Urs of the revered Sufi saint Hazrat Data Ali Hajveri (RA) commenced today in Lahore, under strict security arrangements.
Lahore, often called Data Ki Nagri due to his spiritual legacy, is the final resting place of Ali bin Usman Hajveri, famously known as Data Sahib (RA). Nearly a millennium ago, he arrived from Afghanistan and settled near Bhati Gate, where his exemplary morals and teachings inspired many non-Muslims to embrace Islam. His renowned work, Kashf-ul-Mahjub, remains a cornerstone of Sufi literature.
The Urs will run from August 13 to 15, drawing devotees from all over Pakistan. The program includes Qirat and Naat recitations, along with soulful Sufi music (Sama) gatherings. Free meals (Langar) and milk stalls have been arranged for visitors, while shops selling sweets and religious items add to the festive atmosphere.
DIG Operations Faisal Kamran inspected the shrine’s security, checking entry and exit points and directing officers to intensify safety measures. Roads leading to Data Darbar—from Town Hall, Bilal Ganj, and Karbala Gamay Shah—have been blocked with containers and barbed wire, though access for pedestrians and motorcyclists remains open.
The Punjab Government has also declared August 15 a public holiday in Lahore in connection with the Urs. The holiday applies to departments such as MCL, LDA, TEPA, WASA, PHA, Walled City Authority, RUDA, and LWMC zones, while the Civil Secretariat and its subordinate offices will remain operational. A formal notification has been issued.
