ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Pakistan has invited Sikh pilgrims from around the world, including India, to attend two major Sikh events scheduled to be held in Pakistan this month.
India has, however, barred pilgrims from coming to Pakistan for the rituals.
According to the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), the death anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev Ji (Jor Mela) would be commemorated on June 16 at Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore.
Furthermore, the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh will be observed on June 29 at his samadhi, also located in Lahore.
Sikh pilgrims from around the world are likely to attend the events, however, due to strained diplomatic ties, India has not issued the required NOCs (No Objection Certificates) for Indian pilgrims to travel to Pakistan, local media reported.
Pakistan, on the other hand, has expressed its readiness to facilitate cross-border pilgrimage.
Pakistani authorities have finalised all necessary arrangements for potential arrivals, including security, accommodation, and transportation across key religious sites.
The first group of pilgrims was expected to arrive on foot via the Wagah Border on Monday, June 9.
They were supposed to begin their pilgrimage at Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and visit local holy sites (gurdwaras) during a two-day stay.
The group of pilgrims was also scheduled to proceed to Gurdwara Sucha Sauda in Farooqabad (Punjab), followed by a visit to Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Punjab’s Hassan Abdal on June 11.
The main religious ceremony for Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom, including the Bhog Akhand Path Sahib ritual, will be held at Gurdwara Dera Sahib on June 16.
A second group of Indian pilgrims is scheduled to arrive on June 22 (Sunday) for the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. If visas are granted, they will begin their visit in Nankana Sahib on June 23 before travelling to Hassan Abdal via Farooqabad on June 24.
The group will stay at Gurdwara Panja Sahib on June 25, visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur on June 26–27, and travel to Lahore on June 28.
Sikh pilgrims
The main ceremony at the samadhi of Maharaja Ranjit Singh will take place on June 29, featuring the Bhog Akhand Path Sahib. Pilgrims will stay in Lahore on June 30 and depart for India on July 1, 2025.
According to officials, all arrangements have been made to ensure a secure, comfortable, and spiritually fulfilling experience for pilgrims, contingent on Indian approval for cross-border travel.
