Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar visited the Data Darbar shrine in Lahore on Sunday to review the progress of its expansion project [1].

The visit highlights the government's focus on maintaining religious landmarks that attract large numbers of pilgrims and serve as centers for spiritual activity. By reviewing the expansion, the administration aims to improve the site's capacity to manage visitors and preserve its cultural heritage.

During the visit, Dar met with officials to assess the current state of the construction and development work at the shrine, also known as Data Ganj Bakhsh [1], [2]. The project is designed to expand the physical footprint of the shrine to better accommodate the flow of devotees who visit the site throughout the year [1].

Beyond the infrastructure review, Dar emphasized the spiritual and social importance of the location. He spoke about the influence of Sufism on the regional identity and the necessity of promoting a message of harmony within the country [2].

"The timeless Sufi teachings of Hazrat Ali Hajveri (RA) continue to illuminate the path of peace, tolerance, and spiritual enlightenment," Dar said [2].

The Deputy Prime Minister noted that these teachings remain relevant in the modern era, serving as a counter-narrative to extremism. He urged officials to ensure that the expansion project is completed efficiently to serve the public interest [1], [2].

Data Darbar is one of the most significant spiritual centers in Pakistan, drawing millions of visitors annually. The expansion project is part of a broader effort to modernize the facilities surrounding the shrine while maintaining its historical integrity [1].

“the timeless Sufi teachings of Hazrat Ali Hajveri (RA) continue to illuminate the path of peace, tolerance, and spiritual enlightenment”

The visit blends administrative oversight with a strategic cultural message. By linking the physical expansion of the shrine to the promotion of Sufi values of tolerance, the government is leveraging religious infrastructure to project a narrative of peace and moderation in a region often challenged by sectarian tension.