Cheti Chand Celebrations Kick Off at Pir Pithoro Shrine; Devotees Swarm Shrine for Annual Sacred Fair Cheti Chand that marks New Hope
Umerkot, Sindh
The annual Cheti Chand fair at the historic shrine of Pir Pithoro began this evening amid a steady influx of pilgrims from across Sindh. The fair marks one of the most significant spiritual occasions in the region, drawing devotees from diverse communities to pay homage at the centuries‑old Sufi site.
Pir Pithoro, whose shrine lies in the town that bears his name in Umerkot District, is revered as a saint of peace, humility, and inclusiveness. Exact historical records of his life are unavailable, but local tradition places his spiritual influence in Sindh’s medieval to early modern era, roughly between the 12th and 17th centuries CE.
The shrine has long served as a shared center of devotion for people of all backgrounds. It is not owned by any particular caste or group, including Rana Thakurs or Meghwars, but is maintained by custodial families and visited by adherents of various faiths, reflecting Sindh’s Sufi tradition of harmony and collective reverence.
The Cheti Chand fair, observed in honor of the Hindu New Year and the birth anniversary of Lord Jhulelal, holds special significance for the Hindu community. Thousands of pilgrims, including families with children, have converged on the shrine from cities and towns such as Badin, Sujawal, Matli, Diplo, Mithi, Islamkot, Nangarparkar, Samaro, Mirpurkhas and beyond.
Despite intense heat, many devotees have undertaken long journeys on foot, carrying offerings and seeking darshan. Local organisers, led by the Pir Pithoro Shiva Mandli, have arranged accommodations, community meals, medical facilities and other essential services for visitors. Langar and water camps have also been set up along key routes to assist yatrees travelling from distant areas.
In addition to today’s Cheti Chand festivities, shrine officials reminded pilgrims that the major annual fair held every November will also take place later in the year, continuing for seven days.
Administrators have put in place strict security measures to ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors.
Pir Pithoro remains a deeply respected figure in Sindh’s cultural and spiritual history. According to local tradition, he belonged to the Meghwar community and was known from childhood for his spiritual nature. Referred to by many as “Dada Sahib,” he is seen as a unifying symbol of Hindu‑Muslim spiritual traditions. Folk accounts also suggest that he lived a celibate life and attracted numerous followers across communities, particularly in the Thar and Umerkot regions.
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