2,100 Indian Sikh pilgrims reach Pakistan for Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary celebrations

LAHORE: As the 556th birth anniversary celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji kick off in Nankana Sahib, at least 2,100 Sikh pilgrims from India have arrived in Pakistan to participate in the celebrations.

As per details, the Pakistan High Commission has issued more than 2,100 visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims in the first major issuance since the clashes between India and Pakistan in May this year.

The main ceremony to mark the birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak will be held on November 5 at Gurdwara Janam Asthan, where federal and provincial ministers are expected to attend.

All gurdwaras in Nankana Sahib, including the birthplace of Baba Guru Nanak, have been decorated with illuminated displays for the celebrations.

Security and medical arrangements, including Rescue 1122 and ETPB medical teams, along with backup generators, have been put in place.

Senior Sikh leaders, including Jathedar Akal Takht Kaldeep Singh Gargaj, SGPC group leader Bibi Gurinder Kaur, and Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee representative Ravinder Singh Sawhney, were also present.

Speaking on the occasion, Nasir Mushtaq said pilgrims are being provided accommodation, meals, transport, and medical facilities during their stay. After completing immigration and customs formalities, the pilgrims departed for Gurdwara Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib via special buses.