Around 600 Sikh pilgrims from India arrived in Pakistan on Wednesday through the Wagah Border to take part in the Jore Mela celebrations at Gurdwara Dera Sahib, marking the martyrdom anniversary of Guru Arjun Dev Ji.
The pilgrims were received at the border by Punjab Minister for Minorities Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora, officials of the Evacuee Trust Property Board, and representatives of the Pakistan Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee.
Officials said the visit reflects growing religious harmony and people-to-people contact between Pakistan and India. Ramesh Singh Arora said Pakistan has always welcomed Sikh pilgrims with respect and care, and visas were issued to all applicants who wished to attend the religious gathering.
According to ETPB Additional Secretary Nasir Mushtaq, this is the largest group of Sikh pilgrims to arrive for the occasion in the past 14 years. He said extensive arrangements have been made for their stay, travel, healthcare, and security.
Authorities have also taken special measures due to the ongoing heatwave. CCTV cameras and monitoring systems have been installed to ensure the safety of all visitors during their stay.
Members of the visiting Sikh delegation, including Sardar Gurmeet Singh Bohar and Parmjeet Singh, said they consider Pakistan a second home. They also said the country’s Sikh holy sites, including Gurdwara Dera Sahib, hold deep spiritual importance for their community.
They praised the hospitality of Pakistani authorities and expressed hope that religious tourism and cross-border goodwill would continue to grow despite political tensions.
The main Jore Mela ceremony will be held on June 16 at Gurdwara Dera Sahib, where thousands of devotees are expected to participate in prayers and commemorative events.