Data Ganj Bakhsh Urs concludes

LAHORE

Three-day ceremonies of 973rd Urs of Hazrat Ali bin Usman Hajveri (RA) popularly known as Data Ganj Bakhsh concluded on Monday night at the shrine of this 10th century saint. 

Authorities had made extensive security measures to ensure safety of the participants by installing multi layer checking with walk through gates and metal detectors, and security cameras to monitor all sections of the shrine.

According to Punjab Auqaf Department estimates, over 1.3 million devotees from all over the country participated with traditional zeal and devotion in this three-day spiritual and cultural gala featuring all traditional rituals like Mahafil-e-Samaa, Qirat, Qawwalis and spiritual gatherings and preaching congregations addressed by noted Ulema, Mashaikhs and Gaddi Nasheens.

Thousands of policemen in uniform and plainclothes, besides other security agencies personnel and volunteers performed duties to avoid any untoward happening. Generators were installed to provide uninterrupted power supply to the well illuminated shrine. Special camps of health department, Rescue 1122 and civil defence were also set up to facilitate the devotees.

The Urs was formally inaugurated by Federal Finance Minister Senator Ishaq Dar by laying a floral wreath and starting the milk Sabeel on first day. Punjab Minister for Auqaf and Religious Affairs Atta Muhammad Manika supervised the proceedings. Noted Qaris recited the Holy Quran and Naat Khawans continued enthralling the devotees in several sessions.

During the spiritual gatherings, special prayers were offered for security, solidarity and prosperity of the country, success of ongoing Zarb-e-Azab, success of Kashmir and Palestine liberation movements. Huge rush was witnessed at the milk Sabeel and the langar where not only the destitute but also devotees were lined up trying to have just one morsel of the blessed food.

There were many men and women who had traveled large distances to seek special blessings of the Almighty Allah and offer special prayers to fulfill their needs and solve the problems.