556th Birth Anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji Begins at Nankana Sahib; Indian Sikh Pilgrims to Arrive via Wagah Border Tomorrow

Ali Imran Chattha

Lahore (Nazrana Times) — November 3, 2025
 

Under the supervision of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs & Interfaith Harmony, the 556th Birth Anniversary (Parkash Gurpurab) of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, has commenced at Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Nankana Sahib.
The celebrations began with the Akhand Path Sahib ceremony and are being attended by a large number of Sikh pilgrims from the United States, Canada, Australia, Europe, and various regions of Pakistan.
According to the ETPB, Indian Sikh pilgrims will arrive in Pakistan through the Wagah Border on November 4, where they will receive a warm welcome from Pakistani officials. The main ceremony of the birth anniversary will be held on November 5 at Gurdwara Janam Asthan, with Federal Minister for Religious Affairs & Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, serving as the chief guest.

ETPB Chairman Dr. Sajid Mahmood Chauhan conducted a surprise visit to Gurdwara Janam Asthan, where he reviewed security arrangements, cleanliness, and pilgrim facilities. He also inspected residential blocks, bedding arrangements, drinking water, and the langar hall to ensure smooth management during the festival.
Meanwhile, Additional Secretary Shrines, Nasir Mushtaq, along with the Security Wing and Shrines team, visited the Wagah Border to inspect preparations for the pilgrims’ arrival. The team reviewed immigration counters, security scanners, ID verification systems, dining arrangements, and waiting areas, and also conducted a rehearsal of staff operations.

Speaking on the occasion, Nasir Mushtaq said that, as in previous years, the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji is being celebrated across Pakistan with great devotion and enthusiasm.
As per the schedule, Indian Sikh pilgrims will be formally welcomed on November 4 by ETPB Chairman Dr. Sajid Mahmood Chauhan, Additional Secretary Nasir Mushtaq, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, and other officials at the Wagah Border before they proceed to Nankana Sahib for the celebrations.