Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar stated that the timeless Sufi teachings and spiritual philosophy of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA) continue to illuminate humanity with a universal message of peace, tolerance, brotherhood, compassion, and spiritual enlightenment. He expressed these views while attending as Chief Guest the 983rd Annual Ghusl Mubarak Ceremony at the shrine of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA) under the Punjab Auqaf and Religious Affairs Department.
Dignitaries Attend the Ceremony
A large number of dignitaries attended, including Minister for Auqaf Chaudhry Shafay Hussain, Minister for Health Khawaja Salman Rafique, Minister for Housing Bilal Yasin, Chairman of the Religious Affairs Committee of Data Darbar Ali Dar, Chairman LDA Mian Marghoob Ahmad, Senior Member Board of Revenue Nabeel Javed, Secretary Auqaf Dr. Ehsan Bhutta, Secretary Home Ahmad Javed Qazi, Secretary Excise Masood Mukhtar, CCPO Bilal Siddique Kamyana, DIG Operations Faisal Kamran, and Deputy Commissioner Lahore Captain (R) Muhammad Ali Ijaz. Other attendees included members of the Religious Affairs Committee, Auqaf officers, religious scholars, spiritual leaders, sajjada nasheens, and a large number of devotees.
Ritual Washing and Prayers
During the ceremony, the Deputy Prime Minister, accompanied by provincial ministers and scholars, participated in the ritual washing of the holy shrine with rose water and joined special prayers for Pakistan’s peace, stability, prosperity, national unity, and the welfare of the Muslim Ummah.
Review of Expansion Project
Senator Ishaq Dar reviewed the ongoing large-scale expansion and development project at Data Darbar aimed at facilitating millions of devotees, promoting religious tourism, and preserving the shrine’s heritage. Secretary Auqaf Dr. Ehsan Bhutta briefed him on the progress, highlighting that, in line with the vision of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, extensive works are underway, including improvement of access routes, construction of spacious corridors, modern ablution and washroom facilities, enhanced lighting, landscaping, beautification, crowd-management measures, and a safer environment for visitors. Dr. Ehsan Bhutta emphasized that these initiatives are designed to improve facilities and enhance the dignity, architectural beauty, and historical significance of the shrine.
Inauguration of Photographic Gallery
Following the Ghusl Mubarak, the Deputy Prime Minister inaugurated a Photographic Gallery in the Religious Affairs Committee Room at Data Darbar. The gallery showcases twenty rare historic photographs depicting the evolutionary journey, architectural transformation, and developmental milestones of the shrine and mosque across different eras. Senator Ishaq Dar described it as a commendable initiative for preserving and promoting the religious, cultural, and historical legacy for future generations.
Appreciation and Distribution of Shields
Expressing satisfaction over the quality and pace of development works, the Deputy Prime Minister appreciated the efforts of Secretary Auqaf Dr. Ehsan Bhutta and his team, reaffirming that safeguarding the spiritual grandeur and visitor facilities of Data Darbar is a collective national responsibility. He observed that Data Darbar stands among the most revered spiritual centres of the subcontinent and preserving its sanctity and heritage is paramount. At the conclusion, he distributed commemorative shields among management team members for their outstanding services and exemplary arrangements for the 983rd Annual Ghusl Mubarak Ceremony.
Gratitude and Coordination
Secretary Auqaf Dr. Ehsan Bhutta expressed profound gratitude to all departments and institutions that contributed to the event. He paid special tribute to the 15-member Punjab Tourism Force team deputed at Data Darbar, as well as the district administration, Lahore Police, Auqaf officials, and all supporting departments for their exceptional coordination, professionalism, and meticulous arrangements, ensuring a spiritually uplifting, secure, and well-managed ceremony for thousands of devotees.
