Pakistan has issued visas to over 3,000 Sikh pilgrims from India to commemorate the 555th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak, the revered founder of Sikhism. The visas will allow Sikh pilgrims to visit various holy sites in Pakistan, participate in religious ceremonies, and celebrate this significant occasion.
Visas Granted for November 14 to 23, 2024
According to a spokesperson from the Pakistani High Commission, the visas have issued from November 14 to November 23 under the 1974 Pakistan-India Religious Tourism Agreement. The pilgrims expected to arrive in Pakistan on the morning of November 14 through the Wagah Border.
Main Celebrations at Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Nankana Sahib
The central celebration for Baba Guru Nanak’s 555th birth anniversary scheduled for November 15 at Gurdwara Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Baba Guru Nanak. Sikh pilgrims will have the opportunity to perform religious rituals and pay their respects at this sacred location.
Pilgrimage to Multiple Sacred Sites in Pakistan
During their 10-day visit, the Sikh pilgrims will visit several prominent gurdwaras across Pakistan, including:
- Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hassan Abdal
- Gurdwara Sacha Sauda in Farooqabad
- Gurdwara Rori Sahib in Eminabad
On November 19, a special ceremony will held at Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, where Sikh devotees can pay homage to the historic site.
Return Journey via Wagah Border
After their pilgrimage, the Indian Sikh pilgrims will conclude their visit with a stay at Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore before departing back to India on November 24 through the Wagah Border.
Advisory for Pilgrims: Bring Dollars Instead of Indian Rupees
The President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, has advised Indian pilgrims to bring US dollars instead of Indian rupees for convenience. This measure aims to prevent challenges with currency exchange and minimize issues with lower conversion rates in Pakistan.
Significance of Baba Guru Nanak’s Birth Anniversary Celebrations
Baba Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary is one of the most revered events in the Sikh religious calendar. Thousands of Sikh pilgrims from around the world, especially from India, gather in Pakistan each year to celebrate his legacy and teachings. This annual pilgrimage not only strengthens the religious bonds between Sikh devotees but also enhances people-to-people connections between Pakistan and India.
