The 982nd urs of Sufi saint Hazrat Ali Hajveri - popularly known as Data Ganj Bakhsh - began in Lahore on Wednesday with thousands of devotees arriving from across the country.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar officially inaugurated the three-day event by laying the traditional chador at the saint’s shrine and offering Fateha.

Aleem Khan joins inauguration ceremony

Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan also attended the ceremony alongside Provincial Minister for Food and Housing Bilal Yasin.

Both ministers welcomed Ishaq Dar upon his arrival at Data Darbar and participated in the prayers marking the opening of the urs.

Pilgrims and security arrangements

The Urs draws pilgrims from Punjab and other provinces every year, with devotees gathering to pay homage to the revered saint. Authorities have implemented strict security arrangements around Data Darbar to ensure smooth proceedings.

Public holiday announced

To accommodate the influx of devotees and facilitate participation, the Lahore district administration has declared a public holiday on Friday, August 15, in connection with the urs.