More than two thousand Sikh pilgrims from India, currently in Pakistan on a 10-day religious visit under the arrangements of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, visited Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore on Tuesday and performed their religious rituals with devotion.
During their stay in the provincial capital, the yatrees also visited Gurdwara Singh Singhania, Gurdwara Chhatti Padshahi, Gurdwara Guru Ram Das and the Dayal Singh Library, and paid respects at the shrine of Hazrat Mian Mir (RA). The pilgrims also visited Anarkali Bazaar for shopping.
The Indian Sikh pilgrims expressed full satisfaction over the arrangements made by the ETPB and district administration, stating that they felt the same warmth, comfort and affection in Pakistan as in their own homes. They said Pakistan had preserved their gurdwaras with sincerity and respect, and the hospitality of the people reflected the true spirit of humanity.
According to Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq, comprehensive arrangements have been made for accommodation, meals, transport and medical facilities. Medical teams from Rescue 1122 and the ETPB are accompanying the yatrees, while generators have been provided to ensure uninterrupted power supply. New bedding has been arranged in decorated marquees and rooms, Gurdwara Dera Sahib has been illuminated with decorative lights, and foolproof security arrangements are in place.
The Sikh pilgrims will return to India via Wagah Border on November 13 after completing their 10-day religious pilgrimage.