Nankana Sahib Prepares for Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s 557th Birth Anniversary; Gurdwara Janam Asthan Beautification Nears Completion

NANKANA SAHIB, Pakistan (Nazrana Times): Preparations are gathering pace at Gurdwara Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib for the 557th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj, the founder of Sikhism. Decoration, renovation and beautification work at the shrine, alongside arrangements for visiting pilgrims, are nearing completion.

Between 2,700 and 3,000 Sikh pilgrims from India, along with thousands of devotees from other countries, are expected to visit Pakistan for the celebrations. Special arrangements are being made for accommodation, langar, medical assistance, security, transportation and the smooth conduct of religious ceremonies.

The main religious ceremony is expected to take place on November 24, 2026. Authorities will formally announce the final programme and schedule.

Under the administration of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), the langar hall, residential blocks, main prayer hall and other buildings are being decorated and renovated. Flower beds are being prepared in the lawns, while tree pruning and extensive cleaning work are also nearing completion.

Electricity arrangements are being upgraded, including the installation of a new transformer, to ensure an uninterrupted power supply throughout the celebrations.

ETPB Senior Deputy Secretary Syed Faraz Abbas and Deputy Secretary Muhammad Usman are supervising preparations and coordinating arrangements in Nankana Sahib. The work is being carried out under the directions of ETPB Chairman Qamar-uz-Zaman and Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq.

Speaking on the occasion, Syed Faraz Abbas said Pakistan was internationally recognised for its traditions of hospitality, religious harmony and respect for all faiths. He described Sikh pilgrims arriving from India and other countries as honoured guests, saying every possible facility was being provided to ensure their safety, comfort and freedom to perform religious rituals.

He emphasised that Gurdwara Janam Asthan holds exceptional religious significance as the birthplace of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj. Ensuring the dignity, security and comfortable stay of every visiting pilgrim remained a top priority, he said.

Syed Faraz Abbas added that all relevant departments and institutions were working in close coordination to make the 557th birth anniversary celebrations a memorable and successful occasion for Sikh devotees from around the world.

Report: Ali Imran Chattha