The Sindh government has officially declared a public holiday on August 20 to commemorate the Urs of the revered Sufi poet, Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai. This annual observance honors the legacy of one of Sindh’s most beloved cultural and spiritual figures.
According to a notification issued by the government, all government offices, educational institutions, autonomous and semi-autonomous bodies, corporations, and local councils within the jurisdiction of the Sindh government will be closed on 14th Safar, which corresponds to August 20 this year. However, essential services will remain operational across the province, ensuring that critical functions continue uninterrupted.
The Urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai is a significant cultural event in Sindh, celebrated annually over three days starting from the 14th of Safar. The festivities take place at the Sufi poet’s final resting place in Bhit Shah, a town renowned for its historical and spiritual importance.
Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, commonly known by the honorifics Lakhino Latif, Latif Ghot, Bhittai, and Bhit Jo Shah, was a Sindhi Sufi mystic and poet from Pakistan, widely considered to be the greatest poet of the Sindhi language.
This year’s official events will include a diverse range of activities that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Sindh. The Shah Latif Literary Conference will bring together scholars and enthusiasts to discuss the poet’s contributions to literature and Sufism. Traditional Sindhi boat racing, known locally as Malakhro, will be a highlight, alongside a Sufi music gathering that will feature performances by renowned artists. Additionally, agricultural and industrial exhibitions will showcase the region’s advancements, and a cultural village will be established to display traditional Sindhi crafts and cultural items.
The Urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai not only serves as a time for spiritual reflection but also as an opportunity to celebrate and preserve the vibrant cultural traditions of Sindh.
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