Karachi: Sindh Minister for Auqaf, Religious Affairs, Zakat and Ushr, Syed Riaz Hussain Shah Shirazi, has paid rich tribute to the great Sufi saint, poet and philosopher, Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (R.A.), on the occasion of his 283rd Urs Mubarak, describing his teachings as a lasting source of peace, love, tolerance, national unity and spiritual enlightenment.
In his message issued on Tuesday, the Provincial Minister said Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (R.A) was one of the greatest Sufi poets and intellectuals of the subcontinent whose timeless poetry continues to inspire humanity with the universal values of peace, compassion, brotherhood, patience, selflessness and mutual respect.
He said the revered saint devoted his life to spreading the teachings of Almighty Allah and the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), while promoting harmony, coexistence and service to humanity.
Shirazi said the message of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (R.A.) remains as relevant today as ever, encouraging people to uphold social harmony, tolerance and public service. He noted that “Shah Jo Risalo”, the immortal literary masterpiece of the saint, is not merely a collection of poetry but a profound intellectual and spiritual legacy that offers guidance on every aspect of human life and reflects the enduring principles of justice, perseverance, sacrifice, love and human dignity.
The Minister said Sindh has long been recognized as the land of Sufi saints, adding that the poetry and philosophy of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (R.A.) represent the true spirit of Sindh’s civilization, culture and spiritual heritage.
He said the saint’s invaluable contribution to promoting Sindh’s rich Sufi traditions across the world would always be remembered with respect and admiration.
Highlighting the arrangements for the annual Urs celebrations, Syed Riaz Hussain Shah Shirazi said the Auqaf Department, Government of Sindh, has finalized all necessary preparations to ensure the successful observance of the 283rd Urs Mubarak.
He said comprehensive arrangements have been made for security, sanitation, medical facilities, accommodation, traffic management and other administrative matters to facilitate devotees and pilgrims.
He further stated that the Auqaf Department, district administration, law enforcement agencies and other relevant institutions are working in close coordination to ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of the Urs.
He emphasized that providing a safe, secure and well organized environment for pilgrims arriving from across Pakistan remains a top priority of the Government of Sindh.
The Provincial Minister urged the people to draw inspiration from the teachings and Sufi philosophy of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (R.A.) by promoting love, tolerance, unity, public service, national harmony and devotion to the homeland.
Concluding his message, Syed Riaz Hussain Shah Shirazi prayed that Almighty Allah, through the blessings of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (R.A.), may bless Sindh and Pakistan with lasting peace, stability, prosperity and unity, and enable the nation to move forward with harmony, brotherhood and mutual respect.