Sikh devotees from across Pakistan and abroad gathered at Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur, for the 486th Guru Nanak Kartarpur anniversary. The three-day ceremonies began on September 20 and will continue until September 22. Indian pilgrims were barred from attending this year due to security concerns cited by New Delhi.
The event honors Guru Nanak’s final resting place, where he spent his last 18 years. Thousands of yatris from Pakistan and other countries arrived to pay respects. Rituals included prayers, hymns, and commemorative gatherings at the sacred Gurdwara.
Indian Home Ministry denied permission for Sikh citizens to cross the border. The decision sparked criticism from opposition leaders and Sikh religious authorities in Punjab, India. Former Lok Sabha member Sukhbir Singh Badal called the restriction unjustified and urged reconsideration.
These visits are usually facilitated under the Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines of 1974. The protocol aims to promote religious harmony and foster cross-border understanding between the two nations. Annual pilgrimages include Baisakhi and other important Sikh observances.
The 486th Guru Nanak Kartarpur anniversary is proceeding without Indian participants but draws significant attendance from Pakistan and global Sikh communities. Authorities emphasized security and smooth conduct of the sacred rituals during the three-day event.