NANKANA SAHIB, Pakistan (AP) — On April 14, 2024, thousands of Sikhs gathered in Pakistan to celebrate Vaisakhi, a significant harvest festival that marks the beginning of the Sikh New Year. This vibrant event is predominantly celebrated in the Punjab region and northern India, and many Sikhs made the pilgrimage to Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh faith.
This year, Pakistani authorities issued over 6,500 visas to Indian Sikhs, a notable increase compared to previous years. Obtaining visas for travel between India and Pakistan is usually a challenging process. However, a special arrangement between the two governments enables religious pilgrims to visit sacred shrines and places of worship, facilitating their journey across the border.
The central celebration of Vaisakhi took place at Gurdwara Janam Asthan, one of the nine key Sikh places of worship located in Nankana Sahib, approximately 75 kilometers (46 miles) west of Lahore. The event attracted a large number of pilgrims who participated in various religious ceremonies and rituals throughout the day.
Rinko Kaur, who traveled from Gujarat, India, expressed her initial apprehension about visiting Pakistan due to family concerns about safety. Despite her fears, Kaur found the local people to be incredibly welcoming. “I saw people coming out of their houses, waving as a welcome gesture. We feel as if we are celebrities,” she stated. Kaur intends to visit several other significant Sikh holy sites during her stay in Pakistan.
Many of the notable Sikh holy sites are situated in Pakistan, remnants of the British partition in 1947, which divided the subcontinent into India and Pakistan after two centuries of colonial rule. This historical context adds further significance to the observance of Vaisakhi, emphasizing its importance to the Sikh community.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the significance of Vaisakhi, describing it as a time of “great joy for farmers.” He highlighted that the festival fosters a spirit of hope, unity, and renewal, echoing the shared sentiments that inspire and unite various communities in this region. Sharif’s remarks reinforce the cultural and spiritual importance of this harvest festival, showcasing its role in strengthening communal bonds among Sikhs and other local residents.
The gathering of Sikhs in Nankana Sahib serves as a reminder of the enduring ties between the Sikh community and their historical sites in Pakistan. As these celebrations unfold, they offer a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and mutual respect among different faiths and communities.
