KARACHI: The Sindh government has officially declared Wednesday, July 29, 2026, as a public holiday across the province to mark the annual Urs of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (R.A.), one of the most celebrated Sufi saints and poets in South Asia.
According to an official notification issued by the Sindh Information Department on Monday, the holiday will be observed by all provincial government offices, autonomous and semi-autonomous bodies, corporations, and local councils functioning under the administrative control of the Sindh government.
The Government of Sindh has declared 14th Safar 1448 A.H. (Wednesday, 29 July 2026) as a public holiday throughout the Province of Sindh on the occasion of the Urs of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (R.A.). pic.twitter.com/I2GvFXQ6KV
— Sindh Information Department (@sindhinfodepart) July 27, 2026
The notification stated that the decision has been taken in observance of 14th Safar 1448 A.H., which falls on July 29, 2026. The provincial administration said the public holiday aims to facilitate citizens wishing to participate in the annual Urs celebrations held in honor of the revered Sufi poet.
In a statement shared on the Sindh government's official X account, authorities confirmed that all government institutions under the provincial administration would remain closed on the day. However, the notification clarified that essential services would continue to operate without interruption to ensure the smooth delivery of public services across the province.
Every year, the Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai Urs is observed at the saint's historic shrine in Bhit Shah, where thousands of devotees, scholars, artists, and tourists gather from across Pakistan. The three-day celebration includes traditional Sufi music performances, poetry recitals, cultural events, and religious ceremonies that pay tribute to the enduring legacy of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest Sufi poets in the region, Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai is remembered for his timeless poetry promoting peace, love, tolerance, and harmony. His famous work, Shah Jo Risalo, continues to inspire readers and researchers while remaining a cornerstone of Sindhi literature and culture.
The annual Urs is considered one of Sindh's most significant religious and cultural events, attracting large crowds to Bhit Shah each year. Provincial authorities are expected to make comprehensive security and administrative arrangements to ensure the safe and orderly conduct of the celebrations while accommodating the influx of pilgrims and visitors.
