The Jamshoro Times The City of Education
Sindh Declares Public Holiday on 20th August 2024 for Urs of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai – The Government of Sindh has officially declared Tuesday, 20th August 2024, corresponding to the 14th of Safar 1446 (A.H), as a public holiday across the province. This announcement, made via a notification issued on 16th August 2024, marks the observance of the Urs of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (R.A), a revered Sufi saint and poet.
Significance of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai
Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (R.A) is one of the most significant figures in Sindhi culture and history. Known for his profound spiritual teachings and poetic contributions, he is revered not only in Sindh but across the Muslim world. His magnum opus, the “Shah Jo Risalo,” is a treasure trove of Sindhi poetry, reflecting deep Sufi wisdom and humanistic values. The annual Urs of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai is a time when thousands of devotees gather at his shrine in Bhit Shah, Sindh, to pay their respects and participate in various religious and cultural activities.
Details of the Public Holiday Notification
As per the notification, the public holiday will apply to all government offices, autonomous bodies, semi-autonomous bodies, corporations, and local councils operating under the administrative control of the Government of Sindh. However, it is important to note that essential services will remain operational on this day.
The notification (No.SO(CTC)(SGA&CD)4(23)/2006), issued by Asif Hyder Shah, the Chief Secretary of Sindh, was widely circulated to all relevant government departments and bodies to ensure compliance and necessary action. This includes key institutions such as the Sindh High Court, the Planning & Development Board Sindh, and the Sindh Public Service Commission.
Cultural and Spiritual Observance
The Urs of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai is not just a public holiday but a celebration of the Sufi traditions that are deeply rooted in Sindh’s history. The occasion is marked by devotional music, recitations of Shah Latif’s poetry, and prayers at his shrine. The festival also highlights Sindh’s rich cultural heritage, with traditional Sindhi music, dance, and crafts being showcased.
Also read: Sindh Government Declares Public Holiday on 14th August 2024 for Independence Day
The public holiday provides an opportunity for people across the province to participate in these spiritual and cultural events, reflecting on the teachings of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai and their relevance in contemporary times.
FAQs on Sindh Public Holiday for Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai’s Urs
Why has the Sindh government declared a public holiday on 20th August 2024?
The Sindh government has declared a public holiday on 20th August 2024 to observe the Urs of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, a revered Sufi saint and poet.
Will all government offices be closed on this day?
Yes, all government offices, autonomous and semi-autonomous bodies, corporations, and local councils under the administrative control of the Sindh government will be closed, except for essential services.
What is the significance of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai’s Urs?
The Urs commemorates the death anniversary of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, a prominent Sufi saint known for his spiritual teachings and Sindhi poetry. It is a significant cultural and religious event in Sindh.
What activities typically take place during the Urs?
The Urs is marked by various spiritual and cultural activities, including recitations of Shah Latif’s poetry, devotional music, prayers, and showcasing of traditional Sindhi arts and crafts.
Is the Urs of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai observed only in Sindh?
While the Urs is primarily observed in Sindh, devotees from across Pakistan and other regions also participate in the celebrations.
The declaration of a public holiday by the Sindh government on the occasion of the Urs of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai underscores the cultural and spiritual importance of this event. It allows people to come together in celebration of a figure who has left an indelible mark on Sindhi literature, spirituality, and culture. This observance not only honors the legacy of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai but also serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of his teachings in today’s world.