he three-day annual urs of Hazrat Shah Hussain kicked off in the city, with all its pomp and show. The event, which draws thousands of devotees of the 16th Century Punjabi Sufi poet to his shrine, is meant to commemorate his life and teachings. Celebrations include recitals of Shah Hussain’s kafis, food stalls, and merry-go-round for children. But the highlight remains a grand bonfire at the shrine, which has the devotees throw candles and oil lamps into it, and hoping their wishes will be granted. No wonder they call it Mela Chiraghan, or the festival of lights.

Traditionally, before President Ayub Khan ordered against it in 1958, the festival was held in Shalimar Gardens. This year, the Punjab government in collaboration with the Walled City of Lahore Authority has decided to return the event to the heritage venue.