LAHORE – More than 2,800 Sikh pilgrims arrived in Pakistan via the Wagah Border on Friday, April 10, 2026, to participate in the annual Vaisakhi Mela and celebrate the 327th Khalsa Janam Din. The pilgrims were warmly received by provincial authorities, signaling the start of a high-profile religious journey across the country’s most sacred Sikh sites.

High-Level Welcome at Wagah Border

Provincial Minister and Pardhan of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, alongside Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq, officially welcomed the international guests. The reception included traditional hospitality, with the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) providing refreshments and streamlined custom clearances.

Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora extended his heartfelt congratulations to the pilgrims on the occasion of Vaisakhi. He emphasized that Pakistan remains a land of peace and religious freedom for all, particularly for the followers of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Commitment to Religious Tourism and Security

Despite regional tensions, the government of Pakistan issued over 2,800 visas to ensure the continuity of this sacred tradition. This move highlights the federal government's commitment to promoting religious tourism and interfaith harmony.

The ETPB has finalized extensive arrangements to facilitate the visitors, including:

Foolproof security protocols at all holy sites.
Comfortable transportation via dedicated air-conditioned buses.
Quality lodging, medical facilities, and 24/7 Langar services.

Pilgrimage Itinerary and Vaisakhi Festivities

The pilgrims have been divided into three convoys and transported to Gurdwara Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib. After a two-day stay, the group will travel to Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal.

The central ceremony of the Vaisakhi Mela is scheduled to take place on April 14 at Gurdwara Panja Sahib. Jatha Leader Sardar Surjeet Singh expressed his gratitude to the Pakistani government, noting that "Pakistan is a peace-loving country" and that Sikhs worldwide appreciate the respect and care they receive here.