Public Holiday on 1st October
Pakistan has always been a land blessed with the love and teachings of great Sufi saints. Among them, Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A) shines as one of the most beloved spiritual leaders and poets of the subcontinent. The Government of Pakistan has officially announced a public holiday on 1st October 2025 in Rahim Yar Khan district, Punjab.
This holiday is dedicated to mark the annual Urs (death anniversary) of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A). For thousands of devotees, this day is not just a holiday—it is an opportunity to reconnect with his message of peace, harmony, and brotherhood. The decision also reflects the cultural and spiritual values deeply rooted in the region. For locals, 1st October is a day of love, devotion, and remembrance.
Quick Details Table
| Topic | Details |
| Holiday Date | Public Holiday on 1st October 2025 (Wednesday) |
| District | Rahim Yar Khan (Punjab) |
| Occasion | Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A) |
| Announced By | District Administration Rahim Yar Khan |
| Affected Institutions | Government & Private Offices, Schools, Colleges |
Is 1st October 2025 a public holiday across Pakistan?
Many people are asking this question. The answer is no—the public holiday is only for Rahim Yar Khan district. Cities like Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad, Multan, Peshawar, and Quetta will remain open as normal. If you live in Rahim Yar Khan, you will enjoy the holiday. But if you are outside the district, 1st October will be a regular working day.
Why was the holiday announced?
The Public Holiday on 1st October has been declared in connection with the annual Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A), a renowned Sufi saint, poet, and scholar. Born in 1845 and passing away in 1901, Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A) wrote in Saraiki, Punjabi, Urdu, and Persian. His “kafis” (poetic verses) are still widely admired for their deep spiritual meaning.
He dedicated his life to spreading love, tolerance, and unity. His Urs attracts thousands of devotees every year at Rahim Yar Khan and Kot Mithan, where his shrine is located. Special arrangements are made by local authorities for visitors, including security, transport, and accommodation facilities.
What will remain closed in Rahim Yar Khan on 1st October 2025?
According to the official notification, the following will remain closed:
- All government and private offices
- Public and private schools
- Colleges and educational institutions
- Private companies within district limits
However, essential services such as hospitals, emergency services, and law enforcement agencies will continue as usual. This ensures that residents do not face difficulties in health, safety, and emergency needs.
What does the official notification say?
The Rahim Yar Khan District Administration has issued the official holiday notification:
- Date: 1st October 2025 (Wednesday)
- District: Rahim Yar Khan only
- Occasion: Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A)
- Issued By: District Administration Rahim Yar Khan
This is strictly a district-level holiday, not a nationwide holiday.
Why are local holidays important in Pakistan?
Local holidays like this carry deep cultural and spiritual meaning. While national holidays (such as 14th August and 23rd March) are celebrated everywhere, district-level holidays highlight the unique heritage of specific regions.
Benefits of local holidays include:
- Preserving the teachings of Sufi saints for future generations.
- Promoting local tourism and cultural gatherings.
- Strengthening community ties and traditions.
- Honoring regional identity and pride.
Who was Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A) and why is he remembered?
Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A) was one of the greatest Sufi poets of the 19th century. His poetry carried messages of love, humanity, and peace. He spoke against injustice and division and encouraged unity among people. His Saraiki poetry is still sung and celebrated across Pakistan.
In today’s world, where extremism and hatred divide societies, his teachings are more relevant than ever. His Urs is not only a religious gathering but also a cultural festival that attracts poets, writers, artists, and followers from all walks of life.
Do other districts also observe local Urs holidays?
Yes. Pakistan has a long tradition of declaring local holidays on Urs celebrations of great saints. For example:
- In Lahore, on the Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (R.A), a local holiday is observed.
- In Multan, on the Urs of Hazrat Shah Rukn-e-Alam (R.A), a local holiday is declared.
These holidays remind us of the influence and respect Sufi saints hold in different parts of Pakistan.
Conclusion
The Government of Pakistan’s decision to declare 1st October 2025 as a public holiday in Rahim Yar Khan is not just an administrative announcement—it is a way to honor the life and teachings of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A). While schools, offices, and institutions will remain closed in the district, the message of love and harmony will shine even brighter on this day.
Local holidays like this connect people with their cultural and spiritual heritage, keeping alive the values of peace, unity, and brotherhood.
For official updates and notifications, visit:
www.pakistan.gov.pk
FAQs – Public Holiday on 1st October
Q1: Is 1st October 2025 a public holiday across all of Pakistan?
No, the holiday is only for Rahim Yar Khan district. Other cities will remain open.
Q2: Why was this holiday declared?
The holiday is to commemorate the annual Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A).
Q3: Which offices and schools will remain closed on 1st October 2025?
All government offices, schools, colleges, and private companies in Rahim Yar Khan will be closed.
Q4: Will hospitals and emergency services also close?
No, hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and emergency services will operate as usual.
Q5: Who was Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A)?
He was a famous Sufi saint, poet, and scholar known for his Saraiki poetry and his message of love, peace, and unity.
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