Sukkur Announces Public Holiday for Annual Urs of Hazrat Fakir Qadir Bakhsh Bidl Rohrdai on May 14, 2025

Sukkur Announces Public Holiday for Annual Urs of Hazrat Fakir Qadir Bux Bedil Bekas Rohri on May 14, 2025

Introduction

The Deputy Commissioner of Sukkur has announced a public holiday on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, to commemorate the annual Urs of Hazrat Fakir Qadir Bux Bedil Bekus Rohri, a revered Sufi saint and poet. This holiday allows residents and visitors to fully participate in the three-day celebration at the saint’s shrine in Rohri, Sindh, a cornerstone of the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage. The Urs, expected to occur from May 12 to 14, 2025, draws thousands to honor Bedil’s legacy through prayers, poetry, and communal gatherings.

Biography of Hazrat Fakir Qadir Bakhsh Bedil Bekas Rohri

Born in 1814 in Rohri, Sindh, Hazrat Fakir Qadir Bux Bedil Rohri, also known as Qadir Bux Bedil, was originally named Mian Abdul Qadir Qureshi. He adopted the name Bedil, meaning “one bereft of heart,” out of reverence for Abdul Qadir Jilani. Raised in a pious family, his father, Khalifa Muhammad Mohsin, was a disciple of Sayed Mir Janullah Shah Rizvi, a prominent saint. Bedil lived a simple life, adhering strictly to Shariah law and giving generously to the needy. Despite a physical deformity in one foot, he traveled extensively to pay homage at shrines, including those of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar in Sehwan and Sachal Sarmast in Daraza.

Bedil’s spiritual journey was shaped by the Sufi doctrine of progressing from Ishq-e-Majazi (platonic love) to Ishq-e-Haqiqi (spiritual love). His devotion to Sufism and his literary contributions made him a towering figure in Sindhi culture, revered by both Muslims and Hindus. He passed away on January 15, 1873, leaving a profound legacy that continues to inspire.

Literary Contributions

Recognized as Sindh’s most voluminous poet, Bedil authored 23 books of prose and poetry in Persian, Sindhi, Saraiki, Arabic, and Urdu. His notable works include:

• Wahdat Namo (Book of Union): A profound exploration of Sufi mysticism.
• Surood Namo (Book of Melody): A collection of mystical poetry.
• Masanavi Riyaz-ul-faqr: A poetic work on spiritual poverty and devotion.
• Punj Gunj: A compilation of spiritual insights.
• Diwan-e-Bedil: Collections in Sindhi and Persian.

Scholar Nabi Bux Khan Baloch hailed Bedil as the last Sufi saint to write extensively on Tasawuf (mysticism) and Sindh’s history. Bedil was the first to document the history of Jhok Sharif and the martyrdom of Sufi Shah Inayat Shaheed. His elegy for Sachal Sarmast, with verses like “Wonderful was the magic of love in Daraza, my friend Sachu was there, the intoxicated seeker and the Gnostic,” remains a literary masterpiece. The Bedel Memorial Committee has published 29 research books and 19 journals on his works, underscoring his enduring influence.

Significance of the Urs

In Sufi tradition, the Urs, meaning “wedding,” celebrates a saint’s spiritual union with the divine upon their passing. The Urs of Hazrat Fakir Qadir Bakhsh Bidl Rohrdai, held annually on the 14th, 15th, and 16th of Dhu al-Qi’dah, attracts thousands to his shrine in Rohri, also known as the Bedil-Bekas shrine, as it houses the tomb of his son, Muhammad Mohsin Bekas. The event blends spirituality and culture, featuring:

• Mehfil-e-Samaa: Sufi music and devotional performances.
• Mehfil-e-Mushaira: Poetry recitals by national poets.
• Adabi Conference: Literary discussions on Bedil’s works.
• Langar: Free meals symbolizing communal harmony.

These activities, supported by local residents and officials, foster unity and reflection, reinforcing Sindh’s Sufi heritage.

Details of the 2025 Urs

The 2025 Urs or Melo (death anniversary celebration) is expected to take place from May 12 to 14, aligning with the 14th to 16th of Dhu al-Qi’dah, based on the Islamic lunar calendar. Dhu al-Qi’dah is projected to begin on April 29 or 30, 2025, though exact dates depend on moon sightings. The public holiday on May 14, declared by Sukkur’s Deputy Commissioner, facilitates participation in the final day’s ceremonies, including prayers and Sufi music performances.

Past Urs celebrations, such as the 142nd Urs in 2010, featured significant events like the inauguration by federal ministers and announcements of grants for cultural projects, such as a Rs20 million auditorium and library. Similar arrangements are anticipated for 2025, with enhanced security and logistical support to accommodate large crowds.

Table: Key Details of the 2025 Urs

Aspect	Details
Dates	May 12–14, 2025 (14th–16th Dhu al-Qi’dah, subject to moon sighting)
Location	Bedil-Bekas Shrine, Rohri, Sindh
Public Holiday	May 14, 2025, in Sukkur district
Activities	Mehfil-e-Samaa, Mehfil-e-Mushaira, Adabi Conference, Langar
Significance	Honors Bedil’s spiritual and literary legacy

Conclusion

The Urs of Hazrat Fakir Qadir Bux Bedil Bekus Rohri is a cherished celebration of Sindh’s Sufi and literary heritage. The public holiday on May 14, 2025, underscores Sukkur’s dedication to this tradition, inviting devotees and visitors to engage in spiritual and cultural activities at the Rohri shrine. Bedil’s teachings of love, unity, and devotion continue to resonate, ensuring his legacy endures for future generations.

Citations

• Qadir Bux Bedil Biography - Wikipedia
• Islamic Calendar 2025 - Islamic Relief UK
• Rs20m for Bedil Bekus Auditorium and Library - Express Tribune
• Demise of Faqir Qadir Bakhsh Bedel - Daily Notable

Post : Sayed Sajjad Hussain Musavi

© 2025 Discover Rohri The Ancient City of Sindh

Theft at Moa-e-Mubarak Shrine in Rohri: A Desecration of Sacred Heritage

Theft at Moe-e-Mubarak Shrine in Rohri: A Desecration of Sacred Heritage

Published on May 12, 2025

Understanding Moe-e-Mubarak: The Sacred Relic

Black and white photograph from early 20th century.

Close-up of the broken main gate lock at the Moe-e-Mubarak shrine following a recent theft attempt, highlighting the desecration of this sacred site.

The term "Moe-e-Mubarak" translates to "Blessed Hair" or "Holy Hair" in English, referring to a sacred hair from the beard of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The word "Mubarak," meaning "blessed" or "auspicious" in Arabic, underscores the relic’s spiritual significance. This relic is highly revered in Islam, and shrines housing such relics are considered among the most sacred sites. The Moe-e-Mubarak shrine, also known as War Mubarak, in Rohri, Pakistan, is one such revered site, attracting devotees from across Sindh.

History and Significance of the Moe-e-Mubarak Shrine

The Moe-e-Mubarak shrine in Rohri, Sindh, Pakistan, is a testament to centuries of spiritual and cultural heritage. The shrine houses a hair from the beard of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), brought to Sindh from Istanbul by Makhdoom Abdul Baqi Bakhari in 1545. According to historical accounts, Bakhari, the son-in-law of Sheikh Nizam-u-ddin, a descendant of Hazrat Abu Bakar, received the hair as a dowry gift from his wife’s father, who had acquired it from Constantinople. Initially concealed, the relic’s presence was revealed in a dream to Syed Hyder Shah Haqqani and Makhdoom Abdul Malik, as documented in Zahur Nama by Muhammad Ali Talib (1858).

The shrine was opened for public access in 1545, and during the Kalhora period, Mir Muhammad Kalhoro, the younger brother of Yar Muhammad Kalhoro, constructed an impressive domed structure over it. The relic is preserved in a gold- and jewel-encrusted casket, a gift from Mir Ali Murad Khan Talpur, ruler of Khairpur State. Architecturally, the shrine features a square plan with a heavy green dome on an elevated polygonal drum, adorned with kashi tiles. Adjacent to the shrine is the Jami Mosque War Mubarak, built in 1583 by Fateh Khan, the Mughal Nawab of Bakkhar during Akbar’s reign, also decorated with kashi tiles.

Black and white photograph from early 20th century.

Close-up of the kashi tile facade and green dome of the Moe-e-Mubarak shrine in Rohri, highlighting its intricate design and historical craftsmanship.

The shrine opens after Friday prayers and during the first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah, drawing devotees from various parts of Sindh. It is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the region’s rich spiritual and historical legacy, located near Rohri Railway Station towards Sukkur.

Aspect	Details
Shrine Name	Moe-e-Mubarak/War Mubarak
Location	Rohri, Sindh, near Rohri Railway Station towards Sukkur
Relic	Hair from the Prophet Muhammad’s beard (PBUH)
Public Opening	1545
Key Historical Figure	Makhdoom Abdul Baqi Bakhari, brought relic from Constantinople in 1545
Architectural Features	Square plan, green dome, kashi tile facade
Associated Mosque	Jami Mosque War Mubarak, built in 1583 by Fateh Khan
Visiting Hours	After Friday prayers, first ten days of Dhu’l-Hijjah

The Recent Theft Attempt: A Desecration of Sacred Heritage

In a shocking act of desecration, thieves recently attempted to break into the Moe-e-Mubarak shrine in Rohri. Using an iron rod, they broke the main gate lock and targeted the historical silver door lock, a cherished artifact symbolizing the shrine’s heritage. Despite their efforts to completely break the door, it remained in its original state, preventing access to the inner sanctum where the sacred relic is housed. Remarkably, the thieves could not climb the stairs leading to the relic, leaving the inner sanctum untouched.

The Makhdoom family, the traditional caretakers of the shrine, expressed profound shame and sorrow, noting that such an incident had never occurred in their lifetime. A family member stated, “As you can see, the door is in its original state. They have tried to break it completely. The lock has also been broken. But, miraculously, the thieves were not able to get inside. It is a great shame for our family. This is a big thing for us. This has never happened in our life. Allah has blinded them in such a way that they could not even break the lock and reach the safe place. They could not even climb the stairs. Allah has blinded them. This is the most important area of Rohri.”

  Ubaidullah Qureshi, a respected figure associated with the shrine, expressed profound grief, describing the act as an unprecedented violation of the shrine’s sanctity. He noted the emotional toll on the community, emphasizing that the shrine, located in one of the most important areas of Rohri, had never faced such a tragedy.

Following the incident, Provincial Minister Syed Naser Hussain Shah, Chairman District Council Sukkur Syed Kamil Haider Shah, accompanied by Muhammad Aslam Memon, President of the Pakistan Peoples Party Rohri City, and councilors Suhail Ahmed Soomro and Ibrahim Thaim, visited the site to assess the situation. They expressed deep sorrow and assured the shrine’s administration that a thorough investigation would be conducted to bring the culprits to justice. SSP Sukkur Azhar Mughal took immediate notice and personally oversaw the inquiry, leading to the arrest of a suspect named Abid Mirani, who was found in possession of stolen items from the shrine.

Aftermath of Theft Attempt

Close-up of the broken main gate lock...

Aftermath of Theft Attempt

Aftermath of Theft Attempt

Community Outrage and Calls for Justice

The attempted theft has shaken the faith of devotees and sparked outrage among the local community. The emotional response from the Makhdoom family and Ubaidullah Qureshi underscores the deep connection that locals have with the shrine, viewing it as a symbol of spiritual and cultural identity. The community has rallied together, demanding stringent measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The incident has highlighted the need for enhanced security measures at historical and religious sites across Pakistan. The Moe-e-Mubarak shrine, with its centuries-old legacy, deserves protection to preserve its sanctity and historical value for future generations.

Moving Forward: Restoring Faith and Security

inspecting the Moe-e-Mubarak shrine after a theft attempt, expressing concern and planning next steps

The swift action by the police and the commitment from provincial authorities have provided some reassurance to the community. The arrest of the suspect and the recovery of stolen items are positive developments, but the emotional scars left by this act of desecration will take time to heal. The shrine’s administration has been urged to implement robust security protocols, including surveillance systems and reinforced locks, to safeguard its treasures.

As investigations continue, the people of Rohri and devotees worldwide await justice. The collective efforts of the community, authorities, and shrine administration will be crucial in restoring the sanctity of this revered site, ensuring that the Moe-e-Mubarak shrine remains a beacon of spiritual heritage.

Moe-e-Mubarak War Mubarak Rohri Theft Shrine Desecration Pakistan News Historical Shrine Makhdoom Family

References: Historical information from The Friday Times and "Sukkur: Then and Now" by Muhammad Siddique G. Memon. Incident details based on local reports, statements from the Makhdoom family, Ubaidullah Qureshi, Sayed Sajjad Hussain Shah Musavi, Sayed Abdul Hussain Shah Musavi, Sayed Imdad Hussain Shah Rizvi Kotai, and official updates from SSP Sukkur Azhar Mughal. Additional historical context from Zahur Nama by Muhammad Ali Talib (1858).

Hashtags: #MoeEMubarak #WarMubarak #RohriTheft #ShrineDesecration #PakistanNews #HistoricalHeritage #MakhdoomFamily

The Role of Barbers in Rohri During the Talpur Dynasty: A Glimpse into Historical Traditions

The city of Rohri, steeped in history, offers a fascinating look into the socio-economic roles of barbers during the Talpur Dynasty. Barbers, or "hajams," were integral to the community, providing essential grooming services while also participating in cultural and ceremonial practices. This article explores their multifaceted roles, drawing from historical accounts to highlight their contributions to both Hindu and Muslim communities in Rohri.

Barbers in Hindu Communities

In Rohri, Hindu clients did not employ barbers on a permanent basis. Instead, they visited barbers’ shops or stalls for haircuts or shaves, paying a modest fee of one paisa per visit. This transactional relationship reflects the practical and economical approach to grooming in the Hindu community during the Talpur era. The simplicity of this arrangement underscores the accessibility of barber services, catering to a wide range of clients in the bustling city.

Barbers Serving Wealthy Muslims and Syeds

Wealthy Muslims and Syeds, on the other hand, had a more formalized relationship with barbers. They would summon barbers to their homes or "otaqs" (traditional meeting spaces) for grooming services such as haircuts or shaves, typically when the barbers were free from their market duties. In exchange for these services, barbers received substantial compensation: every six months, they were paid 8 to 10 rupees along with a set of clothes. This arrangement highlights the elevated status of barbers in the eyes of affluent Muslim families, who valued their skills and rewarded them generously.

Barbers’ Role in Muslim Weddings

Barbers played a significant role in Muslim wedding ceremonies, extending their services beyond grooming. They were involved in cooking for the event, a task that showcased their versatility. For this, they received 4 rupees, a piece of cloth for a turban, shoes, a set of clothes, and meals during the wedding. Additionally, barbers were responsible for grooming the groom, including shaving and styling, and even assisting with ceremonial preparations. Their earnings from a wedding typically ranged from 4 to 5 rupees, though wealthier families might pay 40 to 50 rupees, depending on their financial status. This variability reflects the social stratification of the time and the barbers’ ability to benefit from the generosity of affluent households.

Barbers in Hindu Weddings

In Hindu weddings, barbers took on a symbolic role, carrying torches during processions. Their involvement could last from one to four days, depending on the groom’s social standing. For this service, they were paid 3 rupees, along with an additional 4 paisa from each family of the groom’s friends. This role, while less elaborate than their duties in Muslim weddings, was nonetheless significant, as it placed barbers at the heart of ceremonial traditions.

Cultural and Economic Significance

The diverse roles of barbers in Rohri during the Talpur Dynasty illustrate their importance in both practical and ceremonial contexts. From providing daily grooming services to participating in elaborate wedding rituals, barbers were indispensable to the social fabric of the city. Their ability to serve both Hindu and Muslim communities, while adapting to the economic and cultural expectations of each, speaks to their versatility and resourcefulness.

Barber at Work in Rohri, Talpur Era

Conclusion

The history of barbers in Rohri during the Talpur Dynasty offers a unique perspective on the intersection of trade, culture, and community. Their contributions went far beyond haircuts and shaves, encompassing roles that were deeply embedded in the traditions of the time. By examining these historical practices, we gain a deeper appreciation for the unsung heroes of everyday life in Rohri’s past.

Source Reference:

This article is based on historical insights from Imdad Hussain Shah, Rohri, which provides detailed accounts of the socio-economic roles of barbers in Rohri during the Talpur Dynasty.

Barbers in Rohri, Talpur Dynasty, Hindu and Muslim wedding traditions, historical grooming practices, Rohri history.

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