Pakistan stands because of army, says Pir Pagara

Orders followers to educate their children, give them skills

SANGHAR:

Spiritual leader of the Hurs, Pir Sibghatullah Shah Rashdi, popularly known as Pir Pagara, has said Pakistan exists today because of the army, which has kept the country strong and ensured peace for its people.

Speaking to followers during a visit to Oad village near Sanghar on the invitation of Khalifa Hashim Khaskheli, Pir Pagara urged devotees to always pray for the armed forces. He described the military as a "proud institution" that has defended the nation and thwarted enemies on every front. Pir Pagara also advised his followers to educate their children, especially girls. "When a girl studies, the whole household prospers. It gives me joy to see girls from our community becoming doctors and teachers," he said.

He stressed that the shrine and the community were a trust in his care, adding that he had no Facebook account and was not present on social media. "Fundraising appeals in my name are false," he clarified.

The spiritual leader said he had introduced reforms for the betterment of the community and listened to complaints daily at 10pm. He noted that some influential individuals had tried to exploit children and tamper with land records to seize property, prompting him to take strict decisions that would remain in place for life.

Pir Pagara instructed his khalifas to mend their ways and adopt the right path, emphasising that all members of the community were equal. He urged parents to teach their children skills so they could support their families in difficult times.

Chief Khalifa Kaleemullah Wassan, Dr Muhammad Hashim Khaskheli, Faqir Muhammad Qasim Mehr and others accompanied him during the visit.