Indian Sikh Pilgrims Arrive in Pakistan for Ranjit Singh Anniversary
A second delegation of 337 Indian Sikh pilgrims crossed into Pakistan via the Wagah Border to attend the annual death anniversary commemorations of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The main ceremony is scheduled for June 29 at Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore, drawing global participation.
Key Highlights
- A total of 337 Indian Sikh devotees arrived via the Wagah Border for the religious event.
- Officials from the ETPB and PSGPC provided a formal reception for the visiting delegation.
- The central commemoration will take place at Lahore’s Gurdwara Dera Sahib on June 29.
- Authorities have deployed comprehensive security, medical, and transport logistics for the pilgrims.
The visiting delegation received a formal reception from senior officials representing the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC).
The welcoming committee included ETPB Chairman Qamar-ul-Zaman, Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq, and PSGPC President Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora. Deputy Secretary Shrines Faraz Abbas alongside other administrative officials also attended the reception.
Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora confirmed that the ETPB established comprehensive lodging, dining, and general facilities for the visitors. He noted the significant participation of younger generations, which demonstrates a sustained alignment with their ancestral religious traditions.
Chairman Qamar-ul-Zaman reiterated Pakistan’s continuous efforts to advance religious tourism and foster interfaith coordination. He emphasized that the state ensures a secure, peaceful, and hospitable environment for the duration of the pilgrims’ stay while maintaining minority worship sites.
According to Nasir Mushtaq, institutional arrangements cover security, transportation, housing, langar, medical aid, and clean water access. Emergency response units, including Rescue 1122 vehicles and ambulances, are accompanying the traveling convoy.
Delegates from the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee commended the administrative execution by the Pakistani government. The representatives expressed gratitude toward the state authorities for backing religious freedom and community harmony.
The central formal assembly marking the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh is scheduled for June 29 at Lahore’s Gurdwara Dera Sahib, with high international and domestic attendance expected.
History of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s Legacy
Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the founder of the Sikh Empire, ruled the Northwest Indian subcontinent in the early part of the 19th century. His reign is remembered for cultural synthesis, administrative reforms, and the expansion of the empire from its capital in Lahore. His death anniversary remains a highly significant annual event for the global Sikh community, drawing thousands of pilgrims to his samadhi located adjacent to the Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque.
FAQs
When will the main ceremony for Maharaja Ranjit Singh be held?
The primary ceremony observed for the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh is scheduled to take place on June 29 at Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore.
How many Indian Sikh pilgrims arrived in this specific group?
This second contingent of cross-border travelers consists of exactly 337 Sikh pilgrims who arrived through the Wagah Border.
Which organizations managed the reception and logistics in Pakistan?
The logistics, security, housing, and official welcome were coordinated jointly by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC).
