KARACHI: The Sindh government has declared Saturday, August 9, as a public holiday in observance of the 282nd Urs of the renowned Sufi poet and saint Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. The announcement was made through an official notification, marking the start of three-day celebrations at Bhittai’s shrine in Bhit Shah.
Thousands of devotees, scholars, and admirers are expected to participate in the festivities, which will celebrate Bhittai’s enduring message of peace, love, and harmony. Sindh's Culture Secretary, Muhammad Khan Kloro, confirmed that preparations for the cultural and spiritual event are near completion, with all relevant departments involved in organizing the activities.
The Minister for Culture has extended a formal invitation to Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori to inaugurate the Urs celebrations, which are among the most significant events in the province. Highlights of the festival include Sufi music, poetry recitals, literary sessions, and collective prayers at the shrine.
To ensure safety and order during the celebrations, local authorities have heightened security measures. The Deputy Commissioner of Hyderabad has enforced a ban on the display of weapons throughout the event.
Earlier this year, the federal government released the list of public holidays for 2025, with 16 official holidays nationwide. These include Kashmir Day (Feb 5), Pakistan Day (Mar 23), Labour Day (May 1), Yom-e-Takbeer (May 28), Independence Day (Aug 14), Eid festivals, Ashura, Eid Milad-un-Nabi, Iqbal Day (Nov 9), and Quaid-e-Azam Day (Dec 25).
