Pakistan Celebrates Guru Ram Das Ji’s Birth Anniversary with Grand Festivities in Lahore

Pakistan Celebrates Guru Ram Das Ji’s Birth Anniversary with Grand Festivities in Lahore
LAHORE, Oct 9 ( Nazrana Times) Ali Imran Chattha 

Pakistan exemplified its commitment to religious harmony as the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), under the Government of Pakistan, organized vibrant celebrations on Thursday to mark the birth anniversary of Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru, at his sacred birthplace in Chuna Mandi, Lahore. The event, steeped in reverence and devotion, brought together Sikh pilgrims from across the country, showcasing Pakistan’s dedication to preserving religious heritage and fostering interfaith unity.
Guru Ram Das Ji, who served as the fourth Sikh Guru from 1574 to 1581, is celebrated for founding the city of Amritsar and laying the foundation for the iconic Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as the Golden Temple. Affectionately called “Lahoria” due to his deep connection to Lahore, his teachings centered on selfless service, equality, and love continue to inspire millions. The festivities in Lahore paid homage to his enduring legacy, with pilgrims reflecting on his contributions to Sikhism and humanity.
The celebrations featured a series of religious rituals performed with great devotion, including special prayers, kirtan, and discourses that highlighted Guru Ram Das Ji’s philosophy of compassion and unity. Hundreds of Sikh devotees gathered at the historic site in Chuna Mandi, participating in the rituals with fervor and offering tributes to the Guru’s life and teachings. The spiritual ambiance underscored the profound significance of the occasion for the Sikh community.
Prominent figures graced the event, adding to its grandeur. Provincial Minister and Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee Chairman Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora led the proceedings, joined by ETPB Additional Secretary Shrines Nasser Mushtaq, former committee head Dr. Mahimpal Singh, General Secretary Sukhwant Kaur, and former chairman Sardar Bishan Singh. Their participation emphasized the importance of the occasion and Pakistan’s commitment to supporting its Sikh community.
Sikh pilgrims expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Pakistani government and the ETPB for their exemplary efforts in maintaining sacred sites and ensuring seamless arrangements. Through Additional Secretary Nasser Mushtaq, devotees praised the government’s dedication to preserving religious heritage, describing the facilities provided as “exceptional.” The ETPB’s meticulous planning, including free accommodation, langar meals, and medical services, ensured a comfortable experience for all attendees.
Under Nasser Mushtaq’s supervision, the ETPB team worked tirelessly to maintain cleanliness, adequate lighting, and other essential amenities at the birthplace shrine. The board’s round-the-clock efforts ensured that pilgrims faced no inconvenience, allowing them to focus on their spiritual observances. These arrangements reflected Pakistan’s broader commitment to facilitating religious tourism and honoring the sanctity of Sikh heritage sites.
In his address, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora emphasized the deep spiritual and emotional bond the Sikh community shares with Pakistan, stating, “This is the sacred land of our Gurus, and we take pride in Pakistan’s inclusivity and hospitality.” Similarly, Nasser Mushtaq remarked, “Serving Sikh pilgrims is an honor. We are dedicated to ensuring their comfort and preserving the sanctity of these holy sites.” Their words resonated with the spirit of unity that defined the event.
The celebrations not only honored Guru Ram Das Ji’s legacy but also served as a powerful testament to Pakistan’s religious diversity and interfaith harmony. The ETPB and the government’s efforts underscored Pakistan’s image as a welcoming nation that embraces people of all faiths, fostering an environment of mutual respect and coexistence. The event in Lahore stands as a shining example of the country’s progressive and inclusive approach to religious pluralism.