The district of Bahawalpur is gearing up for the eagerly anticipated Mela Channan Pir, scheduled for March 7, marking it as a local holiday.
This annual celebration, dedicated to the revered Sufi saint Channan Pir attracts people from various backgrounds and has become a significant cultural event in southern Punjab.
Located approximately 65 kilometers from Bahawalpur, the resting place of Channan Pir features an open grave adorned with a green sheet, as per the saint’s wishes. The mela, named after him, spans seven consecutive Thursdays starting in February each year. The fifth Thursday, coinciding with the festival’s peak day, is observed as a local holiday.
Mela Channan Pir is a vibrant showcase of Cholistan’s spiritual and cultural heritage, drawing participants from both Hindu and Muslim communities. Attendees engage in diverse activities, including theater performances, magic shows, dance events, rides, horse and camel shows, and jewelry shopping. The festival’s focal point is the grand feast, creating a festive atmosphere.
The event offers an enchanting experience for those opting to stay overnight, spending a magical night under the expansive open sky of the sand dunes. A unique tradition involves visitors throwing ‘tabarruk’ (sacred sweets), believed to bring good fortune to those who pick and taste them.
In February, the Urs (death anniversary) of Channan Pir is observed, attracting devotees from across Pakistan. This adds more color to the festivities, featuring Sufi and camel dances, among other captivating performances.
Matric Exams to proceed despite public holiday
Despite the public holiday announcement, Bahawalpur’s matriculation exams will proceed as scheduled on March 7. The Bahawalpur Board has confirmed that exams for subjects including Geography, Commercial Geography, Computer Hardware, Environmental Studies, and Home Economics will be conducted as per the original timetable.
The district administration has officially declared March 7 a public holiday for the Mela Channan Pir celebration. However, the educational activities remain uninterrupted, ensuring that the matriculation exams proceed smoothly as planned. Bahawalpur continues to embrace its cultural richness and traditions, making the Mela Channan Pir a highlight on the district’s calendar of festivities.
