Sikh Pilgrims Complete Gurdwara Sachcha Sauda Yatra in Pakistan
A group of Indian Sikh pilgrims, on a 10-day tour in Pakistan, recently completed the Gurdwara Sachcha Sauda Yatra. The journey was organized under the supervision of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and the Federal Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony. The pilgrimage took them to Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal after they visited Gurdwara Sachcha Sauda in Farooqabad, Sheikhupura district.
The pilgrims traveled in three convoys, each accompanied by tight security measures. At Gurdwara Sachcha Sauda, they performed religious rituals at the historic site where Guru Nanak Dev Ji is believed to have served food to the hungry. The sacred location is approximately 3km from Farooqabad and 15km west of Sheikhupura.
Nishan Singh, a member of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), expressed satisfaction with the arrangements made for the pilgrims. He highlighted the availability of comfortable lodging, clean water, and well-organized ‘langar’ services. Gurmeet Singh Boh, the Deputy Party Leader, appreciated the efforts made to preserve the religious sites. Meanwhile, Hermeet Singh of the Delhi Gurdwara Management Committee praised the provision of medical support, transport, and other facilities, which he viewed as a clear indication of Pakistan’s commitment to supporting minority communities.
Additional Secretary Shrines, Nasir Mushtaq, commended the ETPB team and the district administration for their effective management of the three-day central celebrations at Gurdwara Janm Asthan Nankana Sahib. He acknowledged that Sikh pilgrims from India and around the world leave Pakistan with a message of peace and harmony.
Following the Yatra, the pilgrims were transported in three secure bus convoys from Sheikhupura to Hasan Abdal. Upon arrival, Gurdwara Panja Sahib was adorned with lights, and clean lodging facilities and langar arrangements were made available for the visitors. During their one-day stay, the pilgrims will perform religious rituals and visit Baba Wali Kandhari.
Key Highlights of the Pilgrimage
- The pilgrimage involved three convoys of Sikh pilgrims, ensuring safety and security throughout the journey.
- Gurdwara Sachcha Sauda, located near Farooqabad, holds historical significance as it is associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
- The organizers provided essential amenities such as clean water, comfortable lodging, and organized langar services.
- Officials from various committees expressed appreciation for the efforts made to ensure a smooth and respectful experience for the pilgrims.
- Medical support, transport, and other facilities were arranged to demonstrate Pakistan’s support for minority communities.
Future Plans and Continued Collaboration
The successful completion of the Gurdwara Sachcha Sauda Yatra marks another milestone in the ongoing collaboration between Indian and Pakistani authorities to facilitate Sikh pilgrimages. The focus remains on maintaining peaceful relations and ensuring that religious sites are preserved and respected.