Guru Nanak Birth Anniversary Celebrated in Kartarpur

The birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, is a significant event celebrated by millions around the world. This year marked the 555th anniversary, and the celebrations at Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan, were particularly noteworthy. The two-day event, which concluded on Wednesday, attracted Sikh pilgrims from various countries, showcasing the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the Sikh community.

During the celebrations, attendees engaged in various religious rituals and cultural exchanges. Pilgrims from both Pakistan and abroad paid their respects by placing floral wreaths on Guru Nanak’s Samadhi and grave. They also visited important sites within the Gurdwara complex, including Mazail Sahib, the museum, Kanwan Sahib, and Talab Sahib. The prayers were led by Sardar Gobind Singh, the head Gyani of Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.

Sardar Anderjit Singh, a member of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, provided insights about the Gurdwara to the visiting pilgrims. A particularly touching moment was the visit to Guru Nanak’s fields and garden, where many pilgrims collected soil as a sacred keepsake. The langar hall served fresh wheat bread, rice, and fruits, all sourced from Guru Nanak’s fields, emphasizing the connection between the community and their revered leader.

International pilgrims, including Aruna Gupta and Pratib Singh from Canada, expressed their gratitude towards the Pakistan government for its efforts in maintaining and beautifying the Gurdwaras. They praised the hospitality, security, and facilities provided during their stay, with some even expressing a desire to relocate to Pakistan. Indian pilgrims Sardar Gurupreet Singh and Shweta Agarwal took the opportunity to request an extension of overnight stay privileges for those entering through the Kartarpur Corridor, highlighting the need for more accessible religious tourism.

In addition to the spiritual activities, the Kartarpur market offered a variety of gifts and souvenirs, including regional attire, which were popular among the pilgrims. The Project Management Unit presented sarupas and gifts to the leaders of the Sikh groups, further enhancing the sense of community and celebration.

Meanwhile, in Gujranwala, hundreds of Sikh pilgrims gathered at Gurdwara Rohri Sahib to partake in the celebrations. The site is of great importance to Sikh devotees, and this year, around 3,000 yatrees attended the festivities. Strict security measures were implemented to ensure the safety of all attendees, reflecting the commitment of local authorities to provide a secure environment for religious observance.

To promote religious tourism, the Punjab government has initiated a renovation and preservation project for Gurdwara Rohri Sahib, allocating Rs45 million to enhance facilities. This investment not only improves the experience for pilgrims but also underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

In Bahawalpur, a delegation of Sikh pilgrims visited the Gurdwara in Makhdumpur Poharan near Khanewal to perform religious rituals. The group included Sikhs from various regions, including Jalandhar, Ferozepur, Patiala, and Roomnagar, who now reside in the United States. Sardar Darshan Singh, the leader of the delegation, expressed his joy at visiting the Gurdwara in Pakistan, highlighting the emotional connection many Sikhs feel towards their spiritual roots.

The celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary not only serve as a reminder of the teachings and values of Sikhism but also foster a sense of unity and community among Sikhs worldwide. As pilgrims return to their homes, they carry with them not just memories of their spiritual journey but also a renewed sense of connection to their faith and heritage. Such events play a crucial role in promoting understanding and respect among different cultures, paving the way for a more harmonious world.