President Asif Ali Zardari has called for a restrained and simple observance of the Hindu festival of Holi, citing the ongoing regional and global situation, particularly concerning events in the Gulf region. The appeal, made amidst heightened geopolitical tensions, comes as Sindh province prepares to host the annual Urs celebrations commemorating the 205th death anniversary of Sufi poet Sachal Sarmast.
The Sindh government has declared public holidays for Hindu employees on March 3rd and 4th, 2026, to allow for the observance of Holi. This decision acknowledges the importance of the festival for the Hindu community within the province, even as also responding to President Zardari’s call for simplicity. A separate statement from the Sindh Chief Minister’s office extended felicitations to the Hindu community on the occasion of Holi.
The call for a restrained Holi celebration reflects a broader concern within Pakistan regarding the potential for regional instability. While details of the specific Gulf situation prompting the appeal remain undisclosed, the timing suggests a sensitivity to external events and a desire to avoid displays that could be misconstrued.
Concurrently, preparations are underway for the annual Urs of Hazrat Sachal Sarmast, scheduled to begin on the 14th of Ramadan. Sachal Sarmast, a prominent Sindhi Sufi poet and mystic who lived from approximately 1739 to 1827, is revered throughout Pakistan for his contributions to Sindhi literature and Sufi philosophy. He wrote poetry in seven languages including Sindhi, Siraiki, Persian, Urdu, Balochi, Punjabi and Arabic. The Urs celebrations are expected to draw devotees from across the country and beyond to his shrine in Daraza, Sindh.
The Sindh government, under the leadership of the Chief Minister, is set to inaugurate the Sachal Sarmast Urs, highlighting the province’s commitment to preserving its cultural and spiritual heritage. Ghulam Jafir Zardari has performed musical renditions of Sachal Sarmast’s poetry, including the song “Theeween Nimani,” further demonstrating the enduring legacy of the Sufi poet.
Sachal Sarmast, born Abdul Wahab Farooqui, was a descendant of Umar and followed the Shah Darazi order, a branch of the Qadiriyyah tradition. His teachings emphasized Sufi principles and his work continues to inspire followers of various faiths. He is often referred to by titles such as Hazrat Faqir Attar-e-Sindh and Mansur-i-Sani.
As of today, the Sindh government has not issued further statements regarding security arrangements for either the Holi celebrations or the Sachal Sarmast Urs, leaving the details of implementation to local authorities.
