Religious ceremonies, prayers, and spiritual rituals are ongoing at Gurdwara Panja Sahib as Sikh pilgrims visiting Pakistan continue their religious journey. Under arrangements made by the Evacuee Trust Property Board and the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, the visiting pilgrims offered prayers at the historic shrine and took part in various religious observances.
Facilities and Security Arrangements
Authorities have arranged extensive facilities for the pilgrims, including accommodation, langar (community meals), transport, and medical support. Officials said that, on the directions of Evacuee Trust Property Board Chairman Qamar-ul-Zaman, all necessary steps are being taken to ensure the comfort and safety of the visitors.
In view of the intense summer heat, special arrangements such as cold drinking water, medical camps, and emergency response services have also been set up. Cleanliness measures have been strengthened at the gurdwara, while district administration and security agencies are providing tight security.
Pilgrims Express Satisfaction
The visiting pilgrims expressed satisfaction over the arrangements, including lodging, langar services, transport, medical camps, ambulance facilities, and on-spot healthcare support. They thanked the Government of Pakistan and the Evacuee Trust Property Board for their hospitality.
They also appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in preserving Sikh religious heritage sites, ensuring religious freedom, and promoting interfaith harmony. The pilgrims said Sikh shrines in Pakistan are well-maintained, peaceful, and welcoming, and praised the hospitality extended to them.
Upcoming Schedule
According to the schedule, the pilgrims will leave Gurdwara Panja Sahib on June 14 and proceed to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, where they will stay for a day and perform religious rituals. Afterwards, they will visit Gurdwara Rori Sahib before reaching Lahore.
The main ceremony marking the martyrdom anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev will be held on June 16 at Gurdwara Dera Sahib. The 10-day pilgrimage will conclude on June 19, when the Sikh pilgrims from India are scheduled to return home.
