Preparations completed for Guru Nanak anniversary

Central ceremony to be held on November 5

LAHORE:

All arrangements for the 556th birth anniversary (Gurpurab) celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the spiritual founder of Sikhism, have been finaliSed under the supervision of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.

Sikh pilgrims from around the world are arriving in Pakistan, while the main contingent from India will cross into Pakistan via the Wagah Border on Novr 4.

The central ceremony will be held on Nov 5 at Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Nankana Sahib.

According to Nasir Mushtaq, Additional Secretary Shrines of the ETPB, all necessary arrangements — including accommodation, transport, health and sanitation facilities, and community kitchens (langar) — have been completed. In consultation with the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC), facilities across all gurdwaras have been fully activated to accommodate the influx of pilgrims.

He added that, under the special directives of Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf and ETPB Chairman Dr Sajid Mahmood Chauhan, Indian and international Sikh pilgrims will be received with the highest respect and hospitality.

ETPB officials stated that comprehensive security measures have been put in place, involving Rangers, police, special forces, and the Board's own security wing.