Punjab Minister Ramesh Singh Arora Welcomes Indian Sikh Pilgrims

Approximately 2,400 Indian Sikhs have arrived in Lahore via the Wagah border to participate in the Baisakhi festival at the Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hassanabdal. The pilgrims were warmly welcomed by officials from Pakistan, including Punjab Minister for Minorities Ramesh Singh Arora and representatives from the Evacuee Trust Property Board. Bouquets were presented to the visitors, and arrangements were made for their transportation to Hassanabdal by train, marking the first time this mode of transport has been utilized following upgrades to the railway station.

The visiting Sikh group expressed their happiness at being in Pakistan and emphasized the importance of a smooth visa process for pilgrims. Security measures and facilities such as accommodation, transport, and medical services have been put in place to ensure the well-being of the guests. The main event of the Baisakhi festival will take place at the Gurdwara Panja Sahib Hassanabdal, with over 10,000 local and foreign Sikh pilgrims expected to participate.

Baisakhi, celebrated in April, signifies the first day of the month of Vaisakh in the Punjabi calendar and holds historical significance as the founding anniversary of 'Khalsa' and Sikhism by Guru Gobind Singh. The Indian pilgrims will also visit other gurdwaras in Punjab during their stay in Pakistan before returning home on April 22. This visit is part of a series of annual pilgrimages by Indian Sikhs to Pakistan for various religious observances throughout the year.