LAHORE: A group of 109 Hindu pilgrims from India reached Pakistan on Monday to participate in the religious rituals of Maha Shivratri at the historic Shri Katas Raj temple in Punjab’s Chakwal district.
The delegation led by Jatha Party leaders Trilok Chand and Raghu Kant reached Pakistan via the Wagah border.
The pilgrims were warmly welcomed at the border by senior officials of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB).
The Federal Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has made comprehensive arrangements for the pilgrims, including security, accommodation, and transportation.
Speaking to the media at the Wagah border, Jatha leader Raghu Kant expressed his delight at visiting Pakistan again. “I have been here before, and every time I come here I feel immense happiness. We are treated with great respect and hospitality,” he remarked.
Following their arrival, the pilgrims were transported to Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore for their stay. On February 25, they will depart for the revered Shri Katas Raj temple, where they will perform religious rituals in observance of Maha Shivratri on February 26.
The annual pilgrimage to Katas Raj is a significant event for Hindu devotees, as the temple complex holds great historical and spiritual importance in Hindu mythology.
In December last year, 84 Indian nationals visited the Katas Raj temples. During their stay, the pilgrims participated in key religious ceremonies, including Bhanu Saptami.
The issuance of the visas is in line with the Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines, established in 1974.
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Under the arrangement each year thousands of Hindu and Sikh pilgrims from India visit Pakistan to attend various religious festivals.
Facilities for Hindu Pilgrims at Katas Raj
In order to promote interfaith harmony and religious tourism, Pakistan last year constructed a modern residential facility at the historic Katas Raj Temple complex to facilitate Hindu pilgrims visiting the sacred Hindu site from India and other regions of the world.
The newly constructed residential block underscores Pakistan’s commitment to preserving sacred religious sites.
Constructed at a cost of Rs 183.510 million, the residential block is comprised of 36 rooms with attached washrooms, a kitchen, and a dining hall to ensure a comfortable stay for Hindu pilgrims. This initiative will enhance the experience for devotees visiting one of Hindus most sacred sites.
