LAHORE: In a powerful display of interfaith harmony and hospitality, the central ceremony of Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s Jor Mela concluded at the historic Gurdwara Dera Sahib, Lahore, with Sikh pilgrims from Pakistan and India praising Pakistan as a beacon of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
The event, organised under the auspices of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, saw a large gathering of Sikh pilgrims, religious leaders, and officials commemorating the 420th martyrdom anniversary of the fifth Sikh Guru.
Indian Sikh pilgrims gathered at Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore on Monday to commemorate the 420th martyrdom anniversary of #GuruArjanDev, the fifth Guru of Sikhism, in a ceremony marked by devotion, historical reflection, and rare cross-border warmth. For many Indian pilgrims,… pic.twitter.com/43x4XZ5W8W
— Voicepk.net (@voicepkdotnet) June 16, 2026
“Pakistan is committed to protecting all religious sites”
ETPB Chairman Qamar-uz-Zaman reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to the protection and restoration of sacred sites belonging to all faiths. He highlighted that Pakistan is steadfast in its commitment to serving the holy places of every religion and ensuring the comfort of visiting pilgrims.
“Pakistan remains committed to the protection, restoration, and service of the sacred places of all religions,” stated Chairman Qamar-uz-Zaman. “The teachings of Guru Arjan Dev Ji promote humanity, tolerance, and selfless service, values that can foster peace and goodwill globally”. He added that pilgrims visiting Pakistan return home as ambassadors of goodwill, carrying a positive image of the country.
Indian Jatha Leader: “Beautiful memories of Pakistan”
Indian Jatha leader Sardar Bhupinder Singh expressed profound gratitude for the hospitality extended to the pilgrims. “We will return home with beautiful memories of Pakistan,” he said, appreciating the exemplary arrangements made for their stay.
Singh praised the maintenance of Gurdwaras, quality accommodation, langar services, transportation, and medical facilities. He also thanked the Government of Pakistan and ETPB for treating the pilgrims with respect and dignity throughout their journey.
The 420th death anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev was commemorated at Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore, where thousands of Sikh pilgrims participated in the event.#GuruArjanDevJi #GurdwaraDeraSahib #SikhPilgrimage #Lahore #PakistanTV pic.twitter.com/GLkOzY4Uh6
— Pakistan TV (@PakTVGlobal) June 16, 2026
Comprehensive arrangements lauded
Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq noted that Sikhism originated on the land of Pakistan, which remains the first home of the Sikh community. “The Government of Pakistan has never prevented Sikh pilgrims from visiting their sacred sites and has always facilitated their religious activities,” he emphasised.
Comprehensive arrangements, including medical camps, ambulance services, and emergency healthcare, were provided to ensure a peaceful pilgrimage.
President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, praised ETPB’s efforts and stated that Pakistan’s doors are always open to the Sikh community.
He announced that restoration and development work is currently underway on 17 Gurdwaras in the first phase.
The Sikh pilgrims expressed satisfaction that religious sites in Pakistan are now more beautiful, secure, and peaceful than ever before, appreciating the nation’s efforts in promoting interfaith coexistence.
The Indian Sikh pilgrims, who arrived on June 10, will conclude their ten-day pilgrimage and return to India on June 19, 2026.
