Deputy Prime Minister Senator Ishaq Dar inaugurated the 983rd annual Urs of Hazrat Ali Hajveri (RA),popularly known as Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA) by performing the traditional chadar-laying ceremony and inaugurating the milk sabeel at Data Darbar, here on Sunday.
He also unveiled the Punjab Auqaf Department’s special publication titled “Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA), Kamlaan Ra Rahnuma” and highlighted the enduring relevance of the saint’s teachings of love, tolerance, justice, brotherhood and service to humanity.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony,the deputy prime minister said Pakistan was established to uphold the golden principles of Islam and the sovereignty of Almighty Allah, adding that the country’s great Sufi saints had spread these values through their character, knowledge and spiritual guidance.
He said the annual Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA) was not only a major spiritual gathering but also an effective platform for promoting Islamic values, national unity and Muslim brotherhood.
The ceremony was attended by Adviser to the Punjab Chief Minister Ali Dar, Punjab Housing and Urban Development Minister Bilal Yasin,Punjab Finance Minister Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman, Senior Member Board of Revenue Nabeel Javed, Secretary/Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr Ehsan Bhutta, Secretary Excise Masood Mukhtar, Lahore Commissioner Nauman Yousaf, Director General Religious Affairs Hafiz Anees-ur-Rehman, Deputy Commissioner Lahore Ali Ejaz, senior officials of the Auqaf Department, NESPAK and other administrative and security agencies.Following the chadar-laying ceremony,floral tributes were offered at the shrine while Khateeb of Jamia Masjid Data Darbar Allama Mukhtar Ahmad Nadeem led a special prayer.
Renowned Qaris recited the Holy Quran, naat reciters presented devotional poetry in praise of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), and qawwal groups presented manqabats and salaam.
The deputy prime minister later received a detailed briefing from officials of the Communication and Works Department and NESPAK on the Data Darbar expansion project,including progress on infrastructure development and measures aimed at improving facilities for pilgrims.
Senator Ishaq Dar appreciated the Punjab government’s comprehensive arrangements for the Urs,describing the service of millions of devotees as a great religious responsibility.
