The Punjab government has officially declared a public holiday in Lahore on April 12, 2025, in honor of Mela Chiraghan, a vibrant cultural event held annually to commemorate the Urs of the revered 16th-century Sufi saint, Hazrat Shah Hussain.
According to an official notification from the Services and General Administration Department (Welfare Wing), this holiday will apply to all public offices and sub-offices located within the Lahore district. However, the notification also made it clear that the holiday will not be applicable to the Punjab Civil Secretariat, its attached departments, or any of the regional offices.
Mela Chiraghan, meaning the Festival of Lights, is one of the most cherished spiritual gatherings in Lahore. The celebration is centered at the shrine of Shah Hussain, where devotees come together to participate in Sufi music, poetry, and various rituals that reflect Punjab’s rich spiritual traditions.
Every year, this festival draws thousands of visitors not only from within the city but also from surrounding areas. The event is a colorful display of faith and culture, often lit by oil lamps, accompanied by the sounds of traditional instruments and the scent of flowers and incense. Locals and tourists alike gather to celebrate the saint’s legacy, soaking in the mystical and peaceful atmosphere.
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Authorities have advised residents and visitors to plan their day accordingly, especially as government offices and schools within the Lahore district will remain closed for the day. Public services in exempted departments, however, will continue to function as normal.
This annual observance is not just a public holiday but a reminder of Lahore’s deep spiritual roots and vibrant cultural history. As the city prepares for the festivities, citizens are encouraged to celebrate respectfully and embrace the spirit of unity and peace that defines Mela Chiraghan.