Remembrance: Dar opens urs

Minister lays a ceremonial chaddar on the shrine of Data Ganj Bakhsh.

LAHORE: Federal Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Sunday inaugurated the 970th three-day urs of Hazrat Ali bin Usman Al-Hajveri, also known as Data Ganj Bakhsh. The minister also lay a ceremonial chaddar (sheet) on the shrine. Minister for Auqaf and Religious Affairs Mian Ata Muhammad Maneka, MPA Mohsin Latif, cricketer Javed Miandad and Auqaf Secretary Dr Saqib Aziz were also present. Dar prayed for the progress, stability and development of the country. Later, he also inaugurated a milk fountain and langar (food). Auqaf Department sources said that about 500 speakers and naat khawans had been invited for events related to the urs. Over 200 sufi leaders from Pakistan and India are expected to participate in the urs. The Auqaf Department has allocated Rs8 million for urs arrangements. As many as 100 close-circuit cameras have been installed for security and 1,700 policemen were deployed for security duties. Twelve walk-through gates and metal detectors have ben provided to check visitors at the shrine entrances. The bomb disposal squad has also been mobilised.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 23^rd, 2013.