The Rahim Yar Khan district administration has declared October 1, 2025, a public holiday to mark the annual Urs of renowned Sufi poet and mystic Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Fareed (R.A). The notification was issued by Deputy Commissioner Khurram Pervez, confirming that all government offices across the district will remain closed. However, the order clarified that banks, federal institutions, and ongoing board examinations will not be affected by the holiday. The announcement gives devotees an opportunity to participate in religious gatherings while ensuring continuity of key services.
Public Holiday Notification – Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Holiday | October 1, 2025 |
| Occasion | Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Fareed (R.A) |
| Announced By | Deputy Commissioner Khurram Pervez |
| Offices Closed | Government offices in Rahim Yar Khan |
| Offices Open | Banks, federal institutions, board exams |
| Main Venue | Rahim Yar Khan & Kot Mithan |
Biography of Khawaja Ghulam Fareed
Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Fareed was born in Chacharan Sharif in 1845 and passed away in 1901. His shrine is located in Kot Mithan, which has become a major spiritual center in South Punjab. Associated with the Chishti-Nizami Sufi order, he carried forward its message of tolerance, humility, and love.
- Known as a master of Saraiki poetry and Kafi form
- A versatile scholar fluent in Arabic, Persian, Urdu, Sindhi, Punjabi, and Braj Bhasha
- Promoted peace, harmony, and human dignity through his writings
Significance of the Urs
The Urs of Khawaja Ghulam Fareed is observed every year with devotion, attracting thousands of devotees from across Pakistan. People gather in Rahim Yar Khan and Kot Mithan for religious rituals, poetry recitations, and cultural activities that reflect his enduring influence.
- Devotees travel from all provinces to attend ceremonies
- Spiritual gatherings highlight his poetry and teachings
- Qawwali and devotional music reinforce his Sufi legacy
Literary Contributions
Khawaja Ghulam Fareed’s poetry is compiled in Diwan-e-Fareed, considered one of the most important literary works in the Saraiki language. His writings address themes of divine love, cultural identity, and the beauty of desert landscapes in Cholistan.
- Elevated Saraiki language to national recognition
- Wrote extensively on spiritual devotion and unity
- Inspired generations of poets, singers, and scholars
Cultural and Social Impact
The Urs is not only a spiritual occasion but also a cultural festival that supports local communities. Vendors, artisans, and small businesses benefit from the influx of visitors, while cultural traditions are revived through performances and communal gatherings.
- Boosts local economy through religious tourism
- Strengthens community ties and cultural pride
- Preserves Saraiki heritage and Sufi values
Government Recognition
By declaring October 1 as a public holiday, the district administration has acknowledged the profound respect people hold for Khawaja Ghulam Fareed. The balance between granting leave to local offices while keeping banks and exams running ensures both devotion and functionality.
- Reflects respect for Sufi traditions in national culture
- Supports devotees in attending the Urs ceremonies
- Maintains essential services for continuity of governance
Conclusion
The announcement of a public holiday on October 1, 2025, for the Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Fareed highlights the timeless influence of his poetry and teachings. His message of harmony, love, and tolerance remains a guiding light for society. The Urs is more than a religious commemoration; it is a cultural and spiritual celebration that unites communities across Pakistan.
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