Pakistan Grants 3,000+ Visas to Sikh Pilgrims for Gurpurb

Pakistan has issued over 3,000 visas to Sikh pilgrims for the Gurpurb celebrations, which mark the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. These visas enable Indian Sikhs to visit Gurdwaras in Pakistan, especially in the Punjab region, where several sacred sites are located. The move is part of the long-standing arrangement between India and Pakistan, facilitating religious pilgrimages across the border.

This arrangement allows Sikh pilgrims to visit important Gurdwaras, including the famous Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, Guru Nanak's birthplace, and other sites tied to Sikh history. These religious visits are a significant aspect of Sikh cultural exchange, fostering spiritual ties between the two nations.

The issuance of these visas is done under the Pakistan-India visa agreement, which allows religious exchanges between both countries. The program has been beneficial in enabling devotees to honor their spiritual roots, regardless of the political tensions between India and Pakistan. These pilgrimages are often viewed as a symbol of peace and goodwill between the two nations.

The visas are typically valid for the duration of the religious events, ensuring that pilgrims can fully participate in the celebrations. This year's visa distribution comes in time for the Gurpurb, marking an important event for the Sikh community. The facilitation of these visits has been welcomed by both sides as a sign of cooperation in religious diplomacy.