The three-day annual Urs, commemorating the revered Sufi saint Sheikh Ahmad Farooqui Sirhindi, commenced today at the historic Rauza Sharif Fatehgarh Sahib. The event, a significant occasion for Naqshbandi Muslims, has attracted a diverse assembly of devotees from around the world.
An impressive 83-member delegation from Pakistan, spearheaded by Dr. Mohammad Azim Farooqui, has joined thousands of other pilgrims from India and abroad to pay their respects. The Urs is expected to witness a profound display of faith and unity over its three-day span.
The district administration has meticulously prepared for the influx of visitors. Over 200 police personnel, including officers from neighboring districts, have been deployed to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the festivities. In addition to security measures, the administration has arranged comprehensive facilities for the pilgrims, including toilets, drinking water, power supplies, and medical support, as confirmed by Deputy Commissioner Parneet Shergill.
The Urs began with solemn religious ceremonies led by Sajjda Nasheen Khalifa Sayyad Mohammad Sadiq Raza Mujaddid. The first day saw devotees visiting the Dargah and performing Namaz. Tomorrow, the focus will shift to the recitation of the Quran, known as Tilawat Ki Quran. The Dargah Committee has also organized accommodations and langar (community meal) to ensure a comfortable stay for the attendees.
Local leaders, including MLA Lakhbir Singh Rai, Former MLA Kuljit Singh Nagra, SAD (B) President Jagdeep Singh Cheema, and SGPC members, welcomed the pilgrims and pledged to provide a hospitable environment throughout the Urs. The visiting pilgrims expressed their gratitude for the warm reception and the seamless arrangements made by the local administration.
In a related note, Dr. Mohammad Azim Farooqui, leader of the Pakistani delegation, spoke on broader issues impacting bilateral relations. He emphasized the importance of easing the visa process to facilitate smoother travel between India and Pakistan. Farooqui called for improved relations between the two nations, suggesting that a reduction in defense budgets could redirect funds towards mutual development. He underscored the shared cultural and social bonds between the people of both countries, advocating for better cross-border exchanges and cooperation.
As the Urs continues, it stands as a testament to the enduring spiritual and cultural connections that bridge communities across borders.
