WAGAH, Lahore: Under the clear spring sky at the Wagah border, where flags and fences mark one of South Asia’s most sensitive frontiers, Sikh pilgrims crossed into Pakistan on Friday, greeted with flower garlands, official receptions and visible warmth as Baisakhi celebrations began.
The first batch of pilgrims from India entered through Wagah, a key crossing between Pakistan and India, to take part in one of Punjab’s most significant seasonal gatherings.
Pakistan issued around 2,800 visas for the festival, with officials confirming that 2,238 pilgrims arrived, while more than 600 did not travel.
They were received by senior officials including Minister for Minority Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, Additional Secretary for Shrines Nasir Mushtaq and Lahore Commissioner Maryam Khan, alongside representatives of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee.
For many arriving pilgrims, the reception set the tone for their journey.
‘Happy with your welcome’
“Our revered late Guru Ji has blessed us with such grace that we received such a warm welcome here. We are very happy with your welcome,” one pilgrim told Pakistan TV Digital.
The journey from Wagah leads into the fertile plains of Punjab, where wheat fields are nearing harvest and towns carry the rhythm of an agrarian season turning.
Baisakhi, rooted in this landscape, marks the harvest cycle and the beginning of a new year in Punjab’s traditional calendar.
“We have come with devotion, and we are satisfied with the arrangements here,” another pilgrim said.
The main ceremony will take place on April 14 at Gurdwara Panja Sahib, a revered site nestled at the foothills near Hasan Abdal.
Birthplace of Guru Nanak
During their 10-day stay, pilgrims will also travel to Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak, moving across a geography that holds deep historical and cultural resonance.
“The facilities provided to us, including accommodation and food, are good,” a third pilgrim noted.
Officials say extensive arrangements have been made, including accommodation, langar, transport, and medical services to support the visitors throughout their stay.
“Everything is well managed, and we feel comfortable here,” another pilgrim said.
Additional Secretary Shrines Mushtaq confirmed that all preparations were in place and reiterated that the main ceremony would be held at Panja Sahib.
The minority affairs minister framed the visit in broader terms, particularly in the context of strained relations following the May 2025 conflict between Pakistan and India.
‘First home for Sikhs’
“Pakistan is not a second but the first home for Sikhs,” Arora said. “Pakistan is the first home for Sikhs, and we will continue to welcome them.”
He added that issuing thousands of visas despite tensions reflects Pakistan’s commitment to peace and people-to-people engagement.
“Our doors will remain open,” he said.
The minister also announced that 17 gurdwaras would become functional this year, with restoration work on 34 more sites expected to be completed within two years.
Kartarpur Corridor
He urged India to fully open the Kartarpur Corridor to facilitate easier access for pilgrims.
Beyond India, pilgrims from Europe, Canada, Australia, and Malaysia are also expected, with special facilitation counters set up at airports across Pakistan.
Leaders of Sikh groups welcomed the arrangements.
Representatives from Indian gurdwara committees expressed appreciation for the hospitality and visa facilitation, describing the visit as both spiritual and cultural.
“We are thankful for the opportunity to visit and for the arrangements made,” another pilgrim said.
As the celebrations continue until April 19, the movement of pilgrims across borders and into Punjab’s heartland reflects a seasonal rhythm that predates modern boundaries, one tied to harvests, journeys and shared spaces shaped by history and land.
