The Punjab government has officially declared April 12, 2025, a public holiday in Lahore to mark the annual Mela Chiraghan, held in connection with the Urs of the 16th-century Sufi saint, Hazrat Shah Hussain, according to a report by Express News.
The announcement came through a notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department (Welfare Wing), confirming that the holiday will apply to all sub-offices within the Lahore district.
“This public holiday is being observed in connection with the annual Urs of Hazrat Shah Hussain (Mela Chiraghan) and will be effective across all sub-offices located within the Lahore district,” the notification stated.
Civil Secretariat and Attached Departments Excluded
The notification clarified that the Punjab Civil Secretariat, its attached departments, and regional offices are excluded from the public holiday.
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Cultural Significance of Mela Chiraghan
Also known as the Festival of Lights, Mela Chiraghan is one of the most vibrant cultural and spiritual events in Lahore. Held annually at the shrine of Hazrat Shah Hussain, the event draws thousands of devotees and visitors from all over the region.
The celebrations include Sufi music, poetry recitals, devotional rituals, and a lively atmosphere that reflects the rich spiritual heritage of Punjab.
