NEW DELHI, Apr 08 (Alliance News): The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued more than 6,500 visas to Sikh pilgrims from India for participation in the annual Baisakhi celebrations, which will be held in Pakistan from April 10 to 19, 2025.
The pilgrims, also known as Yatrees, will visit key religious sites including Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal, Gurdwara Nankana Sahib – the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and the historic Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib.
On this occasion, Pakistan’s Charge d’Affaires in New Delhi, Saad Ahmad Warraich, emphasized that the high number of visas granted reflects Pakistan’s commitment to religious harmony and cultural connectivity. “This gesture shows Pakistan’s resolve to promote understanding and respect between people of different faiths,” he added.
Warraich also stated that Pakistan remains committed to facilitating visits to sacred religious sites and will continue to support such exchanges under the spirit of goodwill and mutual respect.
Every year, thousands of Sikh pilgrims travel to Pakistan under the Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines signed in 1974. The protocol allows both nations to grant visas for citizens wishing to attend religious events and visit shrines of importance to their faith.
The Baisakhi festival, which marks the Sikh New Year and the founding of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699, holds immense religious significance for Sikhs. In Pakistan, the main event is traditionally held at Gurdwara Panja Sahib, which attracts large congregations from around the world.
This year’s event is expected to see an increased number of pilgrims due to improved visa facilitation and the continued functioning of the Kartarpur Corridor, which allows visa-free access to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur for Indian Sikh pilgrims.
The Government of Pakistan, in coordination with the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), is making arrangements to welcome the Yatrees and ensure their comfortable stay and security during the pilgrimage.
