Govt Declares Public Holiday on 1st October! In which District is a Holiday and Why?

The Government of Pakistan has officially declared a public holiday on 1st October 2025 in Rahim Yar Khan district, Punjab. The holiday has been announced to mark the annual Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A), one of the most revered Sufi saints and poets of the subcontinent.

This update is confirmed by the District Administration of Rahim Yar Khan, and all public and private offices, schools, and educational institutions in the district will remain closed on this day.

Which District Has a Public Holiday on 1st October 2025?

The public holiday is only for Rahim Yar Khan district. It is not a nationwide holiday, so normal working schedules will continue in other parts of Pakistan including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad, Multan, Peshawar, and Quetta.

This means that if you are in Rahim Yar Khan, you will enjoy an official holiday, but if you are residing outside the district, the 1st of October will remain a regular working day.

Reason Behind the Holiday – Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A)

The holiday has been announced in connection with the Urs (annual death anniversary) of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A). He was a renowned Sufi poet, scholar, and mystic whose teachings of love, harmony, and peace continue to inspire millions across the region.

Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (1845 – 1901) wrote poetry in Saraiki, Punjabi, Urdu, and Persian.
His kafis (poetic verses) are widely celebrated for their deep spiritual meaning.
He promoted unity, brotherhood, and tolerance, leaving a lasting legacy in South Asian literature and Sufi traditions.

Every year, thousands of devotees gather in Rahim Yar Khan and Kot Mithan (his shrine) to commemorate his Urs. The local administration ensures special arrangements for visitors, including security, transport, and facilities at the shrine.

What Will Remain Closed on 1st October 2025 in Rahim Yar Khan?

On this day, the following institutions and offices will observe a holiday:

All public and private schools
Government and semi-government offices
Private companies within district limits
Educational institutions and colleges

Essential services like hospitals, emergency services, and law enforcement agencies will continue their operations as usual.

Public Holiday Notification Details

The official notification states:

Date: 1st October 2025 (Wednesday)
Area: Rahim Yar Khan district only
Occasion: Annual Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A)
Issued by: District Administration, Rahim Yar Khan

This is a district-level holiday and should not be confused with a national holiday.

Why Local Holidays Are Important in Pakistan

Local holidays like these reflect the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Pakistan. While national holidays are celebrated across the country, district-level holidays highlight the importance of regional saints, poets, and historical figures who have played a vital role in shaping local identity.

Such observances also:

Promote tourism and cultural gatherings.
Strengthen community ties.
Keep the teachings of Sufi saints alive for future generations.

Conclusion

The Government of Pakistan has declared a public holiday on 1st October 2025 in Rahim Yar Khan district to honor the Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A). Schools, offices, and institutions in the district will remain closed, while other parts of Pakistan will continue with regular working hours.

Stay connected with us for more official holiday updates, notifications, and latest news across Pakistan.

FAQs – Public Holiday on 1st October 2025 in Pakistan

Q1. Is 1st October 2025 a public holiday in all of Pakistan?
No, the holiday is limited to Rahim Yar Khan district only.

Q2. Why was the holiday announced?
The holiday is to commemorate the annual Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A).

Q3. Which institutions will remain closed on 1st October 2025 in Rahim Yar Khan?
Schools, government offices, and private institutions will remain closed. Hospitals and emergency services will remain open.

Q4. Who was Hazrat Khawaja Ghulam Farid (R.A)?
He was a Sufi poet and saint, known for his Saraiki poetry and spiritual teachings of love, peace, and harmony.

Q5. Will schools in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad be closed on 1st October 2025?
No, the holiday is only for Rahim Yar Khan district. Schools and offices in other cities will remain open.