The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued visas to over 2,100 Sikh pilgrims from India to participate in the birth anniversary celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism.
The visas were granted under the 1974 Protocol on Religious Pilgrimages, an agreement between Pakistan and India that allows citizens from both countries to visit religious sites across the border.
The celebrations are scheduled to take place in Pakistan from November 4 to 13, with thousands of devotees expected to join the annual festivities.
During their stay, the pilgrims will visit several sacred gurdwaras, including Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Baba Guru Nanak; Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal; and Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, one of Sikhism’s holiest sites. These shrines hold deep spiritual and cultural significance for the Sikh community worldwide, drawing devotees each year for prayers, kirtan, and communal gatherings.
Chargé d’Affaires Saad Ahmed Warraich welcomed the pilgrims at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, extending his best wishes for a “blessed and spiritually fulfilling journey.”
He emphasized that Pakistan remains committed to facilitating Sikh pilgrims from around the world, highlighting that such initiatives reflect the country’s dedication to promoting interfaith harmony, religious tolerance, and cultural understanding.
“Pakistan will continue to extend full support to Sikh pilgrims to make their spiritual journeys meaningful and memorable,” Warraich stated. The government’s efforts aim to ensure that visitors can engage fully in the religious and cultural experiences offered by these historic sites.
This annual pilgrimage not only reinforces the spiritual connections between Sikh communities across borders but also showcases Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for religious tourism.
By facilitating the journeys of thousands of Sikh devotees each year, Pakistan continues to foster goodwill, cultural exchange, and mutual respect between its citizens and the global Sikh community.
The upcoming celebrations are expected to be a vibrant and spiritually enriching experience, further strengthening the bonds of faith and cultural heritage shared by Sikhs worldwide.
