Tomorrow (April 12), the city will mark a local holiday for the Urs celebration honoring Hazrat Shah Hussain, widely recognized as Madhu Lal Hussain—one of Punjab’s most revered Sufi saints. This occasion initiates a three-day festival called Mela Chiraghan (the Festival of Lights)—Lahore’s premier cultural and spiritual gathering—which begins on this date. As per officials from the Auqaf Department, events encompassing both religion and culture are scheduled to occur at two locations: Shalimar Gardens and the Darbar of Madhu Lal Hussain in Baghbanpura. Traditionally taking place in March, this year's Urs has been moved to April 12 because of Ramadan observations. Annually organized, Mela Chiraghan celebrates the enduring influence of Hazrat Shah Hussain—a renowned 16th-century Punjabi Sufi poet and mystic. Thousands of pilgrims come together each year from all over Pakistan and abroad, participating in customary activities such as candle-lighting, drumming sessions, and musical recitals dedicated to his memory. On the inaugural day of the Urs celebrations, ritualistic customs will transpire at the holy site located in Baghbanpura. Concurrently, formal functions along with community-oriented entertainment will unfold nearby within Shalimar Gardens under the management of the Walled City of Lahore Authority. An exclusive custom practiced throughout the duration of the fair includes individuals illuminating small lights around the shrine premises.
When space becomes limited, the candles get placed into one big shared bonfire, which keeps expanding as additional worshippers join in, forming a striking visual representation of unified dedication. The melodic beats from 'dhols,' recognized as some of the finest percussion instruments across the Indian subcontinent, attract numerous visitors. Groups gather around these drum sessions all over the festival area; participants dance and convey their spiritual elation through lively and heartfelt performances. The Festival of Lights honors both the existence and lessons imparted by Shah Hussain, acting simultaneously as an ongoing testament to Lahore’s profound Sufi legacy, enduring culture, and cohesive community spirit.
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