Amritsar, June 10: On the occasion of the martyrdom day of the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji, a group of pilgrims has set off for Pakistan to visit historic Gurudwaras. Organized by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the group departed through the Atari-Wagah border, chanting “Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal.” The pilgrims are expected to return to India by June 20 after visiting various sacred sites.
Bhupinder Singh Bhalwan, an SGPC member, is leading the group, with Gurmeet Singh Bahu appointed as the deputy leader. A total of 561 pilgrims had their passport visas processed, out of which 541 were granted visas by the Pakistan High Commission, while 20 applications were rejected.
Many pilgrims expressed their emotions, stating that visiting historic sites like Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and Gurudwara Panja Sahib has been a lifelong dream. Major Singh from Moga district shared that he received a ten-day visa and is excited to visit these holy places for the first time. His entire family is thrilled about this journey.
Social worker Lakhwinder Singh Lakha Salempuri remarked that the long-awaited prayers for visiting these Gurudwaras are finally being fulfilled. He noted that the group will first arrive at Nankana Sahib, followed by Panja Sahib, Kartarpur Sahib, and will participate in the martyrdom day celebrations at Derah Sahib in Lahore.
The pilgrims believe this journey is not only a religious pilgrimage but also a significant opportunity to connect with Sikh history and heritage. There is a palpable excitement among families and relatives regarding this trip. All pilgrims expressed their joy at the opportunity to visit the Gurudwaras and prayed for a successful and peaceful journey.
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