Devotees flock to Mela Chiraghan

LAHORE: On the 2nd day of the four days long festivities of Mela Chiraghan and Urs of Hazrat Shah Hussain, which began on 30th March, the devotees from many cities of the province continued to pay their tributes and enjoy the biggest religio-cultural mega festival in the provincial metropolis.

The Festival of Lights began from the shrine of Madhu Lal Hussain in Baghbanpura, one day prior the beginning of Urs whereas the dates of the Mela Chiraghan and Urs are from 30th March till 1st April. The first Qawwali night held at shrine of Madhu Lal Hussain was attended by several devotees and other Qawwali lovers from all over Lahore, including foreigners who had heard of this festival in the provincial capital.

The Malangs from all over the country had gathered there who had set up their own tents whereas female devotees were also seen at the shrine. Mela Chiraghan is still regarded as the biggest festival of Punjab, both east and west, and has been a symbol of love, devotion, harmony and defiance of social customs. This festival gives a message of universal love. This year, WCLA has taken up the initiative to extend the festivities to other parts of Lahore as well and this will hopefully motivate the people and bring awareness among the new generation about this festival and message of Shah Hussain.

The festival of lights began with traditional zeal at the shrine of Madhu Lal Hussain at Baghbanpura on Saturday. A large number of devotees from all over the country attended the first day of the annual Urs celebrations of subcontinent’s famous saint Shah Hussain. The day’s proceedings began with Rasm-e-Chadarposhi at the shrine around 11am by Religious Affairs Director General Tahir Raza Bokhari.

The devotees showered rose petals on the shrine of Shah Hussain and Madhu Lal and performed dhamal to the drum beat. Many lit candles as a ritual for fulfillment of their wishes and distributed sweets and other food items. Fire torching and lighting candles are an integral part of the event.

This festival has a great significance in Lahore’s history and during the three days food stalls do a roaring business. Qawwali and Na’at recitals are another major attraction for devotees. For children, swings are installed and the festival also features cultural show, puppet show and magic show on a daily basis.