Pakistan highlights importance of 'cultural diversity' on Baisakhi

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan, on the day of Baisakhi, highlighted the importance of cultural diversity and the beautiful and diverse tapestry of the country.

An ancient tradition of Punjab, Baisakhi is celebrated as a harvest festival that marks the beginning of a new year. It also holds immense importance for the Sikh community as the foundations of the Panth Khalsa were laid on this day in 1699. 

PM reaffirms safeguarding minority's fundamental human, religious, civic rights 

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message on the occasion of Baisakhi, reaffirmed that safeguarding the fundamental human, religious and civic rights of minority communities remained a key responsibility of the state.

The premier highlighted that the day was not only a significant religious festival for Sikhs but also a traditional and cultural celebration in Punjab, marking the joy of harvest after months of hard work by farmers.                                

The prime minister welcomed all Sikh and Hindu pilgrims for the day, ensuring comprehensive arrangements for their religious rights and security during the festivities.

PM Sharif emphasized the importance of cultural diversity, adding that vibrant, multi-dimensional traditions form the foundation of a lively and inclusive society.

Celebrating shared joys strengthens social cohesion and unity, he said.

He further stated that respecting religious festivals of all faiths promotes interfaith harmony. 

“May the joys of Baisakhi bring happiness to all,” he concluded.

Baisakhi servses 'significant religious, cultural milestone': President Zardari 

President Asif Ali Zardari extended his heartfelt greetings to the Hindu and Sikh communities in Pakistan and around the world, stating that Baisakhi served “a significant religious and cultural milestone, marking the commencement of the Rabi harvest.”

While recalling Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s policy of “equality, freedom and security for all citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic background,” the president said that the fundamental principle was enshrined in the country’s Constitution, which guaranteed “equal rights and comprehensive protection to all communities within the state.”

“The government continues to facilitate Hindu and Sikh pilgrims and ensure the upkeep and security of gurdwaras across the country, particularly during important religious occasions,” the president said, reaffirming his commitment to ensuring equal rights for all communities across the country, regardless of their belief, caste or creed. 

President Zardari said that the government remained dedicated to upholding the fundamental rights, safety and dignity of all minority communities. 

“We are deeply committed to the socio-economic welfare of our minorities and remain earnest in our duty to protect their lives and property,” he said.

Efforts of women 'extraordinary, even when unspoken': First lady

First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari said that the day carried “cherished significance” as it was a celebration of “earth's abundance, of faith and of the bonds that hold families and communities together.”

“It is a moment to give thanks for the harvest that sustains life, and to honor the labor and devotion that make it possible,” the first lady said.

Aseefa also pointed out the efforts of the “women in our rural communities, the mothers, daughters, and sisters who carry so much on their shoulders.”

“Through the long and demanding harvest season, they move between the fields and the home, nurturing both without rest,” she said adding that their strength was “extraordinary, even when it goes unspoken.” 

“Even when the roads are long, the resources few and the days unrelenting, they find ways to hold their families together with grace and love,” she said.

“It is a quiet, daily courage that deserves to be seen and celebrated,” she added.

She extended “deep respect and warmest wishes to our Hindu and Sikh brothers and sisters who gather in prayer and celebration on this day.”

“Your traditions, your devotion and your spirit of community are a cherished part of the beautiful and diverse tapestry of our nation,” she said.

“May Baisakhi bring you rest, joy and the gift of time with the ones you love,” she added.