Sikh pilgrims arrive in Lahore to celebrate Baba Guru Nanak Dev birth celebrations

LAHORE: At least 3,000 Sikh pilgrims from India crossed the Wagah border into Lahore on Saturday to commemorate the 554th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Jee, the founder of the Sikh religion.

According to Dawn.com, during their 10-day stay in Pakistan from November 25 to December 4, the pilgrims are set to visit significant Sikh holy sites, including Gurdwara Janamasthan Nankana Sahib, Gurdwara Punja Sahib Hassanabdal, Gurudwara Sacha Sauda, Gurdwara Dera Sahib Lahore, Gurudwara Rohri Sahib Aimenabad, and Gurudwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Narowal.

Welcoming the guests, Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee Pardhan Sardar Ameer Singh expressed gratitude and called for the resumption of the halted train service, stating its importance in facilitating pilgrims.

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He commended the efforts of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) for coordinating arrangements with the Prabandhak committee.

Meanwhile, Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) Amritsar party leader Khushmindar Singh conveyed special appreciation for Pakistan and its people, stating that the love for the country compelled Sikh pilgrims to visit repeatedly.

Singh expressed contentment with the Kartarpur Corridor’s opening and thanked the Pakistani government, particularly the ETPB, for safeguarding Gurdwaras in the country.

In his welcoming address, Additional Secretary (Shrines) Rana Shahid Saleem highlighted the ETPB’s comprehensive security measures, along with accommodations and travel arrangements, ensuring a secure and comfortable pilgrimage experience for Sikh visitors.