Lahore: Punjab Minister for Housing Bilal Yasin on Sunday attended the 836th urs celebrations of Hazrat Pir Makki, offering prayers and performing the traditional chador-poshi ceremony at the saint’s shrine.
Accompanied by Auqaf Secretary Dr Ehsan Bhutta, the minister visited the shrine, offered Fateha and participated in the urs proceedings. He also cut a cake and distributed langar among pilgrims and devotees.
Speaking on the occasion, Bilal Yasin said Hazrat Pir Makki was a great Sufi saint and spiritual personality whose teachings continued to inspire people towards peace, tolerance and service to humanity. He said Urs celebrations provided an opportunity to renew the connection with the teachings of Sufi saints and the country’s rich spiritual heritage. Religious and spiritual figures had always promoted tolerance, harmony, brotherhood and service to humanity, he added.
‘Today, we need to incorporate the teachings of the Sufi saints into our practical lives,’ the minister said, stressing the need to promote their message of peace and love in society.
Bilal Yasin said Pakistan’s culture and history, particularly that of Punjab, were deeply rooted in the teachings of Sufi saints. He said these teachings could play an important role in strengthening social harmony and brotherhood.
The minister said Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif was taking comprehensive measures for the renovation and preservation of religious and spiritual sites as well as the protection of the province’s historical heritage. He prayed to Allah Almighty to bless Pakistan with peace, prosperity and stability.
