The shrine of Hazrat Syed Saman Shah Sarkar, fondly known as "Larr Jo Laal" or the "Pir of Roosters," draws thousands of devotees every year from across Sindh and beyond. Located near Pangrio town in Badin district, around 7 km east of Pangrio and 26 km from Tando Bago, this revered site recently hosted the 93rd Urs, a celebration infused with spirituality, tradition, and vibrant cultural festivities.
The Unique Tradition of Rooster Sacrifice
A distinctive feature of this shrine is the age-old custom of offering roosters as a sign of devotion. Followers believe that presenting a rooster and completing a symbolic round around the shrine will grant their wishes. Some devotees hand over the bird to shrine caretakers (mujawars) as a token of faith, while others prepare and enjoy their offering as a meal nearby, sharing their blessings with others. The tradition of rooster sacrifice and distribution as langar (free public meal) is a significant part of the Urs festivities and embodies the spirit of giving.
Annual Urs Celebrations: A Cultural Extravaganza
The annual Urs celebration, held on the 14th of Shawal each year, transforms the shrine into a vibrant fairground. This year’s 93rd Urs, inaugurated by Sindh’s Minister for Auqaf, Religious Affairs, Zakat, and Ushr, Syed Riaz Hussain Shah Shirazi, saw a gathering of devotees and pilgrims flocking to the shrine in traditional Sindhi ajrak and topi to pay homage. The minister, along with prominent figures including Syed Tanveer Haider Shah and MPA Taj Muhammad, honored the saint's memory by laying a floral wreath, performing Chadar Poshi, and offering prayers at the shrine.
The Urs fair features an array of traditional activities, from wrestling matches (malakhra) and horse racing to local folk music performances and Sufi Kalams. The air resonates with the sounds of folk singers and vibrant laughter as families enjoy cultural displays and circus acts, truly celebrating Sindh’s rich heritage.
Bustling Bazaar and Local Delights
During the Urs, the shrine’s premises transform into a colorful bazaar lined with stalls selling traditional sweets, cultural items, colorful beads, and handcrafted accessories. Devotees and tourists alike explore the fair’s offerings, savoring the spirit of Sindhi culture. The fair provides an economic boost to the local community, with stall owners and vendors thriving amidst the joyful crowd.
Preserving the Sanctity and Addressing Shrine Challenges
With large gatherings, the shrine sometimes faces challenges of hygiene and cleanliness, especially with mass sacrifices of roosters. Recognizing these issues, Minister Shirazi has announced a comprehensive plan aimed at improving shrine facilities across Sindh, including Hazrat Saman Shah Sarkar’s shrine. Plans include better accommodation, clean drinking water, and other essential amenities for the comfort of the pilgrims.
The Sindh government, through the Auqaf Department, is also addressing administrative improvements and working on plans to preserve the sanctity and serenity of shrines across the province. With recent renovations to Hazrat Saman Sarkar’s shrine and improvements in visitor amenities, efforts are ongoing to create a safe and welcoming space for devotees.
Honoring the Legacy of Syed Saman Shah
The 93rd Urs of Hazrat Syed Saman Shah Sarkar not only brought together thousands of devotees but also reinforced Sindh’s longstanding tradition of promoting peace, love, and brotherhood. Through the enchanting melodies of Sufi poetry, cultural festivities, and the collective spirit of devotion, the Urs celebration reflects the timeless influence of Sufi saints on the region’s cultural fabric.
As we look forward to future celebrations, the legacy of Hazrat Syed Saman Shah Sarkar continues to inspire. His shrine, nestled near the town of Pangrio, remains a symbol of faith, unity, and cultural pride for the people of Sindh and all who come to pay their respects.
