Pilgrims head home after Vaisakhi festival
Indian Sikh pilgrims arrive in Pakistan after crossing the Wagah border crossing, on the eve of celebrations marking the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, founder of Sikhism. Pakistan welcomed dozens of Sikh pilgrims from India in the first major crossing since deadly clashes in May closed the land border between the nuclear-armed neighbours. Photo: AFP
Indian Sikh pilgrims are returning home today after completing their religious visit to Pakistan, carrying fond memories of hospitality and interfaith engagement.
Officials said 2,238 pilgrims arrived on April 10 to participate in the Vaisakhi festival and the 327th birth anniversary of the Khalsa.
They attended religious ceremonies at key gurdwaras, including Gurdwara Janam Asthan Nankana Sahib and Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore.
The pilgrims performed rituals and offered special prayers for peace, interfaith harmony and improved relations between Pakistan and India.