MIRPUR (Kashmir English): The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has officially declared a public holiday in Mirpur on the occasion of urs of Baba Pira Shah Ghazi, observed on 14 Shaban 1446 Hijri, or Thursday, February 13, 2025, through an official notification, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mirpur made the announcement today.
All government offices, educational institutions, and public sector agencies in the area would be closed on that day, according to the notification.
The DC Office, SSP Office, Municipal Corporation, and every other administrative division have all received copies of this notification. This public holiday will ensure better and safer celebrations in the area.
The annual Urs for Hazrat Baba Pira Shah Ghazi (RA), popularly known as Damri Wali Sarkar, will be held at his shrine here at Khari Sharif, Mirpur from February 12 to 13. Thousands of devotees from all parts of Pakistan and AJK will be seen at the venue of the event for special religious affairs. Special security arrangements have also been made for the event. The Urs will begin on the evening of February 12 with ghusal or ritual washing of the shrine after Maghrib prayer, thus spiritually commencing the event. The closing prayer ceremony is scheduled for February 13 at the Darbar in Khari Sharif, where attendees will collectively pray for peace, unity, and prosperity.
A series of religious and cultural events will be conducted during the Urs to honour the legacy of Hazrat Baba Pira Shah Ghazi. The shrine of Khari Sharif has been such a significant spiritual centre that people used to come there for guidance and to get relief for their souls. His teachings, emphasizing Islamic principles and peaceful living, have inspired people across generations.
The authorities have ensured all safety and proper arrangements to conduct the event without any problems. The local administration, in collaboration with the event management team, has also put up severe security arrangements. Considering the importance of the Urs at the religious and cultural levels, the local administration has declared February 13 a public holiday in Mirpur so that more people can participate in the event.
The annual Urs of Hazrat Baba Pira Shah Ghazi is a beloved event that reinforces faith, devotion, and unity among the attendees, reinforcing the region’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions.
