Breaking News: October 1 Public Holiday Announced – Check Who Gets Off and Who Doesn’t!
The district administration has declared October 1, 2025, as a public holiday in observance of the annual Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A). Deputy Commissioner Khurram Pervez issued the notification, confirming that all government offices in the district will remain closed on this day. The notification also stated that federal institutions, banks, and ongoing board examinations will continue their normal schedules. The purpose of this holiday is to facilitate devotees who travel to Rahim Yar Khan and surrounding areas to participate in the Urs celebrations.
Public Holiday Notification – Quick Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Holiday | October 1, 2025 |
| Occasion | Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A) |
| Announced By | Deputy Commissioner Khurram Pervez |
| Offices Closed | Government offices in the district |
| Offices Open | Federal institutions, banks, board exams |
| Main Venue | Rahim Yar Khan & surrounding areas |
Life and Teachings of Khawaja Ghulam Farid
Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (1845–1901), born in Chachran, Bahawalpur, is remembered as one of the most prominent Sufi poets of South Asia. He belonged to the Chishti and Qadiri traditions and used his poetry to promote tolerance, compassion, and spiritual love. His Saraiki poetry, compiled in Diwan-e-Farid, is still read and sung widely.
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Known for devotional Kafi poetry
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Expressed divine love and human unity
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Preserved and enriched Saraiki culture
Urs Celebrations and Devotional Gatherings
The annual Urs draws thousands of devotees who gather in Rahim Yar Khan and nearby towns. People attend spiritual gatherings, recitations, and musical performances that celebrate the saint’s teachings.
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Recitations from Diwan-e-Farid
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Spiritual gatherings at shrines
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Qawwali and devotional music
Impact on Local Communities
The Urs is both a cultural and economic event. It benefits traders, artisans, and local businesses, while also strengthening community bonds. Families participate collectively, reinforcing the message of peace associated with Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid.
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Boosts local economy through tourism
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Strengthens unity and social cohesion
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Preserves cultural and spiritual heritage
Why This Holiday Matters
Declaring October 1 as a public holiday reflects the government’s respect for Sufi traditions while balancing administrative needs by keeping banks and exams running. It acknowledges the role of Sufi saints in shaping Pakistan’s spiritual and cultural landscape.
Conclusion
The declaration of October 1, 2025, as a public holiday for the Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid highlights the significance of his legacy in promoting harmony, love, and tolerance. The Urs remains a powerful symbol of unity and devotion, bringing people together from all walks of life to honor his teachings.
