Pakistan Celebrates 327th World Baisakhi Mela with Grand Ceremony at Gurdwara Sri Panja Sahib
The 327th World Baisakhi Mela was held with immense traditional zeal and deep devotion at the historic Gurdwara Sri Panja Sahib in Lahore. The main ceremony saw the participation of high-profile government officials and thousands of Sikh pilgrims, including a significant contingent from India, highlighting Pakistan's commitment to interfaith harmony.
Government Officials and Dignitaries Attend as Chief Guests
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yusuf graced the event as the chief guest, underscoring the national importance of the celebration. Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs and President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Ramesh Singh Arora, also attended, along with Chairman of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Qamar-uz-Zaman and Secretary Usman Ali Khan. Their presence emphasized the government's support for minority religious events in Pakistan.
Warm Welcome and Acknowledgments by Ramesh Singh Arora
In his address to the gathering, Ramesh Singh Arora extended a heartfelt welcome to the pilgrims, stating that Pakistan is the first home for Sikhs. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz for ensuring excellent arrangements and hospitality. Arora highlighted that despite regional challenges, Pakistan's issuance of visas to thousands of Sikh pilgrims demonstrates its unwavering commitment to peace and interfaith harmony.
Restoration of Gurdwaras and Religious Freedom Initiatives
Arora further detailed ongoing efforts to restore and reopen more than 50 gurdwaras across Punjab for worship, showcasing the government's dedication to preserving Sikh heritage. He affirmed that minorities in Pakistan enjoy complete religious freedom, a point echoed by the pilgrims who praised the arrangements. Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq was specifically commended for his supervision of the event logistics.
Pilgrims Express Gratitude for Pakistani Hospitality
The pilgrims, including over 2,200 from India, expressed their sincere gratitude to the Pakistani government and leadership for the meticulous arrangements. They appreciated the warm hospitality and the opportunity to celebrate their religious festival in a secure and welcoming environment, reinforcing the bonds of cultural and religious exchange between the two nations.
