Public holiday announced for Lahore

The Punjab government has declared a public holiday in Lahore on April 12 in connection with the annual Mela Chiraghan, held to commemorate the Urs of the 16th-century Sufi saint, Hazrat Shah Hussain.

Lahore district will observe a public holiday in connection with the annual Urs of Hazrat Shah Hussain, commonly known as Mela Chiraghan. A notification from the Services and General Administration Department (Welfare Wing) confirmed the holiday and stated that it will apply to all sub-offices within the Lahore district.

This public holiday, however, will not be applicable to the Punjab Civil Secretariat, its attached departments, or regional offices, as clearly mentioned in the official announcement.

Mela Chiraghan, meaning Festival of Lights, is one of the most significant cultural and spiritual events of Lahore. The festival is held every year at the shrine of the famous Punjabi Sufi saint, Hazrat Shah Hussain. The event attracts a large number of devotees and visitors not only from Lahore but also from other parts of the region.

People gather at the shrine to participate in various traditional rituals, listen to Sufi music, and attend poetry recitals that celebrate the life and teachings of Shah Hussain. The festival creates a spiritual and festive atmosphere and reflects the rich cultural heritage of Punjab.

Authorities have made arrangements for managing the crowd and ensuring safety during the event. Citizens are encouraged to join the celebrations peacefully and show respect for the traditions associated with the saint.

This holiday allows locals to take part in the religious and cultural activities of the Urs without affecting the overall functioning of key government departments.