2,238 pilgrims joined rituals at key gurdwaras and prayed for peace, harmony and ties between Pakistan and India
The Vesakhi celebrations, organized by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), included religious and cultural events. PHOTO: EXPRESS NEWS
Indian Sikh pilgrims return home after completing their religious visit to Pakistan, with positive impressions of hospitality, facilities and interfaith engagement during the Vaisakhi festival and the 327th birthday of the Khalsa.
Officials said a total of 2,238 pilgrims arrived on April 10 to attend religious ceremonies at key gurdwaras, including Gurdwara Janam Asthan Nankana Sahib and Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore. The pilgrims performed rituals and offered special prayers for peace, interfaith harmony and improved relations between Pakistan and India.
The Vesakhi celebrations, organized by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), included religious and cultural events. A ceremony was also held at the Dyal Singh Trust Library under the World Center for Punjabi, attended by a large number of pilgrims. Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq, the chief guest, said Pakistan attaches great importance to its religious ties with the Sikh community and provides equal facilities to all pilgrims.
Pilgrims said they got clean water, quality food and well-organized langar services, and appreciated the respect given by locals. PHOTO: EXPRESS
He said that pilgrims were given freedom of religion and international standard arrangements in accordance with the directives of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and ETPB Chairman Qamar Zaman. He also thanked the local administration, health authorities and security institutions for facilitating the events.
Read more: Thousands mark Baisakhi with deep devotion
Pilgrims expressed satisfaction with arrangements, including accommodation, medical care and transport. Group leader Sardar Surjit Singh told the media that gurdwaras in Pakistan were well-maintained and more secure, while facilities for visitors had been improved. Other pilgrims said they got clean water, quality food and well-organized langar services, and appreciated the respect shown by local people.
During their stay, pilgrims visited historic sites in Lahore, including the Lahore Fort and Walled City areas. They were taken on guided tours via double decker buses covering Mall Road, Liberty Chowk and other landmarks. Many also visited Anarkali Bazaar and Shah Alam Market for shopping.
A cultural program of music and local cuisine was held in honor of the pilgrims at Hazuri Bagh.
Pilgrims expressed satisfaction with arrangements, including accommodation, medical care and transport. PHOTO: EXPRESS NEWS
Separately, an interfaith conference was held at Iqbal Hall in the Badshahi Mosque complex under the Auqaf Department, following the directives of the Punjab Chief Minister. The event was attended by Provincial Minister for Human Rights and Minority Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora, Secretary Auqaf Dr. Tahir Raza Bukhari, Bishop Kamran Nadeem, Bhagat Lal and members of the Sikh delegation.
The speakers emphasized religious tolerance and harmony and stated that such initiatives help reduce misunderstandings and promote mutual trust. Officials said restoring religious sites and providing modern facilities to visitors remains a priority.
The pilgrims are scheduled to leave for India via the Wagah border on April 19 after completing their visit.
