Sindh CM highlights Bhutto Legacy, Sufi Values at Shah Latif award ceremony

Sindh CM highlights Bhutto Legacy, Sufi Values at Shah Latif award ceremony

BHITSHAH (Matiari Aug 11): Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah delivered a powerful address at the Shah Latif Award ceremony in Bhit Shah, invoking the legacy of the Bhutto family and reaffirming the Sindh government's commitment to Sufi ideals and education.

The ceremony was held during the Urs (death anniversary observance) of the revered Sufi poet Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai. Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was the chief guest on the occasion.

Mr Shah expressed gratitude to Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for his presence at the Urs, emphasising the historical connection between the Bhutto family and Bhit Shah. He recalled that Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto laid the foundation for the local cultural center 64 years ago and highlighted Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto's deep appreciation for Bhittai's teachings.

"Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto famously said, 'It is difficult to understand Sindh without Bhittai and Bhittai without Sindh,'" the CM stated, quoting from her speech delivered at the Urs 31 years prior. He noted that her call for youth education and hard work remains relevant today. He also reminded the audience of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s commitment to spreading the message of Shah Latif's poetry by printing and distributing the Ganj Sharif across universities at her own expense.

The Chief Minister reiterated Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto's strong stance against violence, stating, "Anyone advocating violence today will be dealt with firmly, just as Benazir Bhutto warned." This statement was framed as a continuation of her commitment to peace and the inclusive message of Shah Latif.

Mr Shah further emphasised the Bhutto family's vision for educational excellence, noting that President Asif Ali Zardari established the Sufi University, fulfilling Benazir's vision. "The Sindh government will continue to advance the message of Sufism under Chairman Bilawal's leadership," he affirmed.

Concluding his address, Murad Shah highlighted the significance of this year's Independence Day celebrations, linking them to the spirit of the Urs. He referenced Pakistan's victory over India and the theme of "Ma’raka-e-Haq" (Battle of Truth), suggesting that the Urs was infused with a sense of national pride and historical triumph.