The three-day Baisakhi celebrations, one of the most important festivals in Sikhism, have concluded at Gurdwara Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib.
The celebrations wrapped up with the sacred ritual of Bhog, where special prayers were offered for Pakistan’s development and security, along with global peace and stability.
Devotees perform Matha Teki, Shabad Kirtan
Thousands of Sikh pilgrims from across the world, including India and from within Pakistan, took part in the celebrations. Devotees performed Matha Teki, Shabad Kirtan, Ashnan, and other religious rituals, reflecting deep faith and spiritual devotion.
Sikh pilgrims travel under tight security
As many as 2,238 Sikh pilgrims from India, led by party leader Sardar Surjeet Singh, travelled under tight security in special buses to Gurdwara Sacha Sauda in Farooqabad, Sheikhupura district. There, they performed religious rituals before proceeding to Hassan Abdal.
Upon departing from Nankana Sahib, the pilgrims expressed their gratitude, stating that the Punjab government treated them with a level of protocol similar to that given to ministers.
They added that they would never forget the love and hospitality shown by the people of Pakistan, and that Pakistan would always feel like a second home to them.
During their 10-day stay in Pakistan, the pilgrims will visit Hassan Abdal, Kartarpur in Narowal, and other holy sites until April 19. The main Baisakhi event will be held at Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hassan Abdal on April 14.
Federal govt issues 2,800 visas
The Government of Pakistan issued 2,800 visas; however, 600 Sikh pilgrims were unable to travel to Pakistan.
Earlier, Provincial Minister Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora laid the foundation stone for the restoration and renovation project of the Gurdwara in Nankana Sahib. The project includes the construction of a modern residential complex with 40 rooms.
A large number of Sikhs from around the world, including India, attended the ceremony. The pilgrims expressed their gratitude to the Government of Pakistan for providing excellent facilities.
Read more: ‘Baisakhi Mela’: Sikh pilgrims visit historic Gurdwaras
