Lal Shahbaz Qalandar Urs Date
| Lal Shahbaz Qalandar | Urs Date |
|---|---|
| Occasion | 773rd Annual Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar (RA) |
| Saint Honored | Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar (RA) |
| Real Name | Syed Usman Marwandi |
| Birthplace | Marwand (Iran, now part of Afghanistan) |
| Date of Passing | 18 Shaaban |
| Start Date | Monday, 17 February 2025 |
| End Date | Wednesday, 19 February 2025 |
| Location | Darbar Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, Sehwan Sharif, Sindh, Pakistan |
| Celebration Duration | At least three days |
| Main Teachings | Humanity, tolerance, and kindness |
| Date Variation | Subject to moon sighting |
The Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar is a deeply spiritual and highly revered event for followers of Sufism and lovers of poetry and mysticism across South Asia. Sehwan Sharif, a small town in the Sindh province of Pakistan, springs to life during this annual celebration, welcoming thousands who come to pay homage to the 13th-century Sufi saint renowned for his teachings of humanity and tolerance. If you’re seeking information about the dates, significance, and ceremonies associated with this event, you’ve come to the right place.
Sehwan Sharif Urs Dates 2025
The 2025 Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar will take place over three days, beginning on Monday, February 17th, and concluding on Wednesday, February 19th. The celebration coincides with the Islamic date of 18th Shaaban, the day that marks the saint’s death anniversary. The venue for all activities will be Darbar Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar in Sehwan Sharif, Sindh, Pakistan.
Key Dates to Remember
- Start Date: Monday, February 17th, 2025
- End Date: Wednesday, February 19th, 2025
- Islamic Date: 18th Shaaban
Note: The exact dates may vary slightly depending on moon sightings.
What is the Urs of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar?
An ‘Urs’ is an annual commemoration of the death anniversary of a Sufi saint. It is considered a time of celebration rather than mourning, as the death of a saint symbolizes their union with the Divine. The Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar is an especially vibrant occasion marked by music (qawwali), dance (dhamaal), and devotional rituals.
Who was Lal Shahbaz Qalandar?
Born Syed Usman Marwandi in Marwand, Sistan (now part of Afghanistan), Lal Shahbaz Qalandar was a celebrated Sufi poet, scholar, and philosopher. Born in the 12th century, he eventually settled in Sehwan Sharif and became a revered figure in the region due to his teachings of compassion, unity, and tolerance.
The name “Lal Shahbaz” originates from the saint’s deep devotion to Imam Ali, often referred to as the “Shahbaz” or “Royal Falcon,” while “Lal” reflects his frequent wearing of red robes. His legacy is one of bridging communities and fostering harmony.
- Date of Birth: Late 12th century, in Marwand
- Date of Death: 18th Shaaban, circa 1274 CE
The Grand Celebrations in Sehwan Sharif
The Urs of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar is a majestic event, blending spiritual devotion with cultural richness.
Events and Rituals
- Devotional Music & Qawwali
The melodious tunes of qawwals (devotional singers) echo through the mela (festival grounds) as they perform timeless Sufi compositions dedicated to the saint.
- Dhamaal (Devotional Dance)
Visitors perform energetic dhamaal at the shrine, a spiritual dance that symbolizes freedom from worldly attachments and a connection with the Divine.
- Offerings at the Shrine
Pilgrims offer floral wreaths and chaadars (holy sheets) at the shrine of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar as a mark of respect and devotion.
- Tasting Communal Meals
Niaz (charity food) is distributed among visitors, symbolizing the Sufi value of sharing and brotherhood.
A Cultural and Spiritual Experience
The shrine becomes a hub of activity as visitors from around the world gather to partake in this rich cultural and spiritual experience. Streets fill with colorful stalls selling everything from traditional Sindhi handicrafts to food items. The heart of this gathering, however, remains the unwavering devotion of those celebrating the saint’s life and teachings.
Public Holiday in Sindh for Urs
The Sindh government has declared Wednesday, February 19th, 2025, a public holiday in observance of the Urs. This ensures that citizens, especially those in Sindh, have the opportunity to visit Sehwan Sharif for the occasion. All government and semi-government offices, as well as educational institutions, will remain closed on this day.
Understanding the Islamic Date for Urs Anniversaries
The Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar always falls on the 18th Shaaban in the Islamic calendar. Since the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, the Gregorian calendar date of the Urs varies each year. Therefore, it’s important to stay updated on annual moon sightings to confirm the dates.
Here’s a look at the Urs dates for previous years:
- 2024: Tuesday, April 2nd
- 2025: Wednesday, February 19th
How Long Until Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar’s Urs?
Eager to join the celebrations? At the time of writing, Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar’s Urs 2025 is just three days away. Plan your trip and get ready for a truly mesmerizing experience in Sehwan Sharif.
The Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar is more than just an event it is a celebration of love, devotion, and community. Whether you’re a devout follower or someone curious about Sufi traditions, this annual gathering at Sehwan Sharif promises an unforgettable experience.