556th birth anniversary celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak begin at Nankana Sahib

LAHORE, Nov 03 (APP):The 556th birth anniversary (Parkash Gurpurab) of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, officially commenced at Gurdwara Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib. The celebrations began with an Akhand Path Sahib under the arrangements of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.

A significant number of Sikh pilgrims from around the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and other countries, as well as different parts of Pakistan, are participating in the religious festivities. Indian Sikh pilgrims are expected to arrive on November 4 via the Wagah Border, where they will be warmly welcomed. The main ceremony is scheduled for November 5 at Gurdwara Janam Asthan, with Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, as the chief guest.

Chairman of the ETPB, Dr. Sajid Mahmood Chauhan, paid a surprise visit to the Gurdwara to inspect security and administrative arrangements. He reviewed facilities including cleanliness, security measures, accommodation blocks, bedding, clean drinking water, and arrangements at the Langar Khana for the visiting pilgrims.

Additionally, the security and shrine teams, led by Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq, carried out a thorough inspection at the Wagah Border, ensuring that immigration counters, security scanners, the newly installed ID verification system, food stalls, and waiting areas were fully operational. A practical rehearsal with staff was conducted to ensure smooth facilitation during the arrival of pilgrims.

Nasir Mushtaq emphasized that, as in previous years, the celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth anniversary are being held with great devotion and enthusiasm.

The visiting Sikh pilgrims will conclude their 10-day religious tour of Pakistan on November 13.