MUZAFFARABAD: The nine-day celebrations of the 126th annual Urs of Sain Saheli Sarkar, a renowned shrine in Muzaffarabad, began on Tuesday with Quran recitation, fateha khwani, and collective prayers attended by a large number of devotees.

Azad Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Religious Affairs, Auqaf and Information, Muhammad Rafiq Nayyar, inaugurated the celebrations by laying a ceremonial chadar at the shrine and praying for the elevation of the spiritual rank of Sain Saheli Sarkar. Secretary Auqaf and Religious Affairs Aamir Mahmood Mirza, Director General Auqaf Muhammad Younis Chaudhry, Director Information Muhammad Bashir Mirza, and other officials were also present.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Nayyar said Sain Saheli Sarkar upheld the great tradition of saints based on the love of Allah. He said arrangements for the Urs had been made foolproof and urged religious scholars and spiritual leaders to promote harmony.

“The message of Sain Saheli Sarkar is one of love and sincerity. Religious scholars should help spread the message of peace, brotherhood, and compassion,” he said.

He added that any shortcomings in arrangements should be pointed out so that corrective measures could be taken to facilitate devotees.

During the nine-day Urs, mehfils-e-naat, mehfils-e-zikr, langar (public kitchen), and other spiritual activities will continue, while special prayers will be offered for the country’s security and prosperity.

The shrine, located near the Press Club and district headquarters complex, is one of the busiest areas in Muzaffarabad. Deputy Commissioner Munir Ahmed Qureshi told reporters that the district administration, police, municipal corporation, and other agencies had ensured foolproof security, cleanliness, and other arrangements for the safety and convenience of devotees. He said the main highway near the district complex had been made one-way, with an alternative route provided to prevent traffic congestion.

Prime Minister Raja Faisal Rathore is expected to participate in the concluding prayers, he added.

Published in Dawn, January 14th, 2026