2,400 Indian Sikh Pilgrims Journey to Pakistan for Baisakhi Festival

Lahore, April 13: Thousands of Indian Sikh pilgrims have embarked on a journey to Pakistan’s Punjab province to partake in the annual Baisakhi festival. Welcomed by officials including Sardar Ramash Singh Orara, the first Sikh Minister in Pakistan’s Punjab province, the pilgrims arrived at the Wagah Border amid joyous celebrations.

Organized by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), the pilgrimage saw 2,400 Indian Sikhs traveling to Hassanabdal to participate in the festivities at Gurdwara Punja Sahib. This year marks a special occasion as the pilgrims were transported by train, a significant upgrade from previous years.

Ensuring the safety and security of the pilgrims, both police and Rangers provided assistance throughout their journey. The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi facilitated the pilgrimage by issuing visas to Sikh pilgrims, with over 11,000 local and foreign Sikhs expected to gather at Panja Sahib for the main event on April 14.

The Baisakhi festival holds immense cultural and religious significance, marking the founding anniversary of ‘Khalsa’ and the formal establishment of Sikhism by Guru Gobind Singh. During their stay, pilgrims will visit various historic Gurdwaras, including Gurdwara Janamasthen Nankana Sahib and Gurdwara Dera Sahib Lahore, before returning home on April 22.

As the pilgrims immerse themselves in the festivities, their journey symbolizes the enduring bonds of friendship and harmony between India and Pakistan, transcending borders and fostering cultural exchange.