Urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai at Bhit Shah on 20 August 2024
Meaning of Urs
URS is a sacred Muslim observance marking the death anniversary of a Sufi saint, symbolizing their spiritual union with the Divine. Derived from the Arabic word “Uroos”, meaning “wedding feast,” it reflects the saint’s eternal journey beyond the physical realm. This occasion is celebrated with prayers, devotional music, and gatherings of devotees, honoring the saint’s legacy of love, wisdom, and spirituality.
The Urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai, one of the most revered Sufi poets of Sindh, are a significant cultural and spiritual event in the region. Held annually on the 14th of Safar in the Islamic lunar calendar, which usually falls in December, the festival commemorates the poet’s death and celebrates his life and legacy.
Origin & Significance
The tradition of Urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai celebrations began shortly after Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai’s death in 1752. His followers and devotees started gathering at his mausoleum in Bhit Shah, a small town in Sindh, Pakistan, to honor his memory and recite his poetry. The Urs is not just a remembrance but a vibrant celebration of his contributions to Sindhi literature and Sufism.
Who Celebrates
The Urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai is celebrated by a diverse group of people, including Sindhi Muslims, Sufi devotees, and literary enthusiasts from various parts of Pakistan and beyond. It attracts thousands of pilgrims who come to pay their respects, seek blessings, and experience the spiritual ambiance of the event.
Main Goal
The primary goal of the Urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai is to pay homage to Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai and to remember his teachings and poetry, which reflect deep spiritual wisdom and a profound understanding of divine love. It serves as an opportunity for devotees to engage in spiritual reflection, music, poetry recitals, and communal prayers. The event also reinforces the cultural and religious identity of the Sindhi people and fosters a sense of unity and devotion.
Events and Activities
The celebrations at the shrine of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai include a range of activities:
- Sufi Music and Poetry: Devotional music sessions featuring traditional Sindhi folk music, qawwali performances, and recitations of Bhittai’s poetry are central to the celebrations.
- Processions: Pilgrims participate in processions to the shrine, often carrying banners and flags while singing devotional songs.
- Religious Gatherings: Special prayers and religious sermons are held at the shrine.
- Community Feasts: Food is distributed among the pilgrims as a form of charity and communal sharing.
Where celebration takes place
The Urs is predominantly celebrated at Bhit Shah, located in the Matiari District of Sindh, Pakistan. The town of Bhit Shah, where Bhittai’s mausoleum is situated, becomes a focal point of the celebrations. The shrine, which was built by Mian Ghulam Shah Kalhoro in the mid-18th century, is beautifully decorated for the occasion and serves as a central gathering place for the festivities.
Bottom-line
Overall, the Urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai is a deeply spiritual and culturally rich event that continues to honor the legacy of one of Sindh’s greatest poets and spiritual leaders.