LAHORE – All public and private educational institutions are expected to remain closed in Lahore on August 26 (Monday) on account of Urs of Hazrat Ali Hajveri, also known as Data Ganj Bakhsh.

Last year, the city administration had announced a local holiday on the eve of the religious event. Public, including students, are also expecting a holiday this year.

The Lahore High Court has declared holiday for courts in wake of the Urs. However, the city administration is yet to confirm whether a public holiday will be announced for this year’s Urs.

If the August 26 local holiday is approved, students will get a long weekend from August 24 to 26 with returning to schools from August 27.

Update on School Holiday on August 26 in Lahore

The provincial government is yet to announce its decision regarding local holiday on August 26 in wake of Urs of Data Ganj bakhsh. The status of the holiday will be updated here as soon as it is announced by the authorities.

Data Ganj Bakhsh’s Urs

Data Ganj Bakhsh’s Urs is annual gathering on anniversary of Hazrat Ali Hajveri – a famous Sufi saint. Ali was a prominent Persian scholar, mystic, and theologian, who played a significant role in the spread of Islam in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in Lahore, Pakistan.

The Urs, which typically lasts for several days takes place in heart of Lahore where devotees from across the region gather to pay homage, participate in prayers, recite poetry, and listen to Qawwali.

People distribute free food to all attendees and is a time of deep spiritual reflection and community gathering. The Urs is symbol of Sufi traditions and practices, celebrating the teachings and legacy of Data Ganj Bakhsh.