Pakistan Grants Visas to Hindu Pilgrims for Shadani Darbar Celebrations

ISLAMABAD – In a significant gesture of goodwill, the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued 87 visas to Indian Hindu pilgrims. These pilgrims are set to visit Pakistan to celebrate the 316th birth anniversary of Shiv Avtari Stguru Sant Shadaram Sahib at the revered Shadani Darbar in Hayat Pitafi, Sindh. The celebrations are scheduled to take place from November 24 to December 4, marking an important event in the Hindu calendar.

On this occasion, Charge d’Affaires Saad Ahmad Warraich expressed his best wishes to the pilgrims, hoping for a rewarding and fulfilling journey. According to a press release issued on Saturday, he emphasized Pakistan's commitment to preserving sacred religious sites and ensuring that visiting pilgrims receive the necessary support during their stay.

“The issuance of visas is covered under the framework of the Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines of 1974,” the statement added. This protocol has facilitated numerous religious visits over the years, fostering a spirit of understanding and respect between the two nations.

In addition to the Hindu pilgrims, the Pakistan High Commission has previously issued over 3,000 visas to Sikh pilgrims from India. These pilgrims are expected to participate in the birthday celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji, which will be held in Pakistan from November 14 to 23. Such initiatives highlight the importance of interfaith dialogue and the shared cultural heritage between India and Pakistan.

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, events like these serve as a reminder of the power of faith and tradition in bridging divides. The upcoming celebrations at Shadani Darbar not only honor a significant figure in Hinduism but also promote peace and understanding among diverse communities. It is a hopeful sign that, despite political tensions, the spirit of camaraderie and respect for each other's beliefs can prevail.