71 Hindu pilgrims arrive in Pakistan

LAHORE:

As many as 71 Hindu Yatrees from India arrived in Pakistan for Bhanu Saptami Puja. They were welcomed by Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) officials and Pakistan Hindu Mandir Management Committee at the Wagah Border.

The Hindu Yatrees were presented bouquets upon their arrival by Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain.

Indian Yatrees group leader Vijay Kumar Sharma said the visit to Pakistan is a message of peace and love. "Whenever I come to Pakistan, I find arrangements better than previous visit," said Sharma, who voiced hope that Pakistan-India ties will improve through promotion of religious tourism.

Bhanu Saptami, a day dedicated to the worship of the Sun god, holds great significance in Hinduism. It occurs on the seventh day (Saptami) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon phase).

It is believed that performing prayers and rituals on this day can bring blessings of health, prosperity, and success.

The Bhanu Saptami of 2024 will fall on Sunday, making it an ideal day for devotees to seek the grace of Lord Surya.

The Hindu Yatrees will return to India on Dec 25.