Sindh, a province in Pakistan, celebrates several vibrant festivals that are an integral part of Sindhi culture. Here are some of the prominent festivals celebrated in Sindh:
- Urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai: This is a major festival held in honor of the renowned Sindhi Sufi poet, Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai. It takes place in Bhit Shah, a town in Sindh, and attracts devotees from all over the province. The festival includes music, poetry recitals, Sufi performances, and traditional Sindhi cultural activities.
- Cheti Chand: Cheti Chand is one of the most significant festivals for the Sindhi community, celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of the Sindhi patron saint, Jhulelal. It marks the beginning of the Sindhi New Year and is observed with great enthusiasm. People participate in processions, sing Sindhi devotional songs, and offer prayers.
- Sindhi Topi Day: Sindhi Topi Day is a unique festival celebrated on December 4th each year to promote and celebrate the cultural identity of the Sindhi people. It encourages people to wear the traditional Sindhi cap (Ajrak topi) as a symbol of their Sindhi heritage.
- Eid-ul-Fitr: As in other parts of the Muslim world, Eid-ul-Fitr is widely celebrated in Sindh. It marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, and people come together to offer prayers, exchange greetings, and share festive meals. The streets and markets are adorned with decorations, and people dress in traditional attire.
- Urs of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar: The Urs of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar is an annual festival held at the shrine of the Sufi saint Lal Shahbaz Qalandar in Sehwan Sharif, Sindh. It is a significant event for devotees, who gather to pay homage to the saint through prayers, Qawwali music performances, and other religious rituals.
- Jhulelal Jayanti: Jhulelal Jayanti is celebrated to honor the birth anniversary of Jhulelal, the patron saint of Sindhis. It is observed with processions, cultural performances, and community gatherings. Devotees offer prayers, recite religious hymns, and seek blessings for prosperity and well-being.
These festivals reflect the religious, cultural, and social fabric of Sindh. They provide an opportunity for people to come together, express their faith, showcase their cultural heritage, and celebrate their shared traditions.