Pakistan has completed all preparations for the 556th birth anniversary celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the revered founder of Sikhism. To facilitate the occasion, the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued 2,100 visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims wishing to participate in the religious festivities.
According to an official statement, the visas were granted under the framework of the Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines (1974), which allows devotees from both countries to visit sacred religious sites. The event will be held at Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak, along with other gurdwaras in Punjab.
The annual celebration draws thousands of devotees from across the world, making it one of the most significant religious events for the Sikh community. Special arrangements have been made by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) to ensure the safety, comfort, and hospitality of the visiting pilgrims.
Officials said that the 2,100 Indian Sikh yatris will arrive in Pakistan through the Wagah border in the coming days. They will visit various historical gurdwaras, including Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib, and Gurdwara Panja Sahib, during their stay.
The Pakistan government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting interfaith harmony and ensuring religious freedom for all communities. The gesture of granting visas is seen as a continuation of Pakistan’s efforts to promote peace and people-to-people contact with India.
Religious tourism has played a vital role in building goodwill between the two neighboring nations. The Kartarpur Corridor, inaugurated in 2019, remains a shining example of cross-border cooperation, allowing visa-free access for Indian Sikhs to visit one of their holiest shrines.
The celebrations are expected to include kirtan sessions, community meals (langar), and prayers led by religious scholars and leaders from Pakistan and abroad. Authorities have also made comprehensive security and transport arrangements for the smooth movement of pilgrims.
This positive development comes at a time when regional relations remain complex, but cultural and spiritual connections continue to bridge divides. In a related development, global political figures have also been making remarks on South Asian affairs, such as Donald Trump’s recent comments about India and Prime Minister Modi
The 556th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji stands as a reminder of peace, compassion, and unity values that continue to inspire millions across the subcontinent.
