Thousands of Sikh Pilgrims Arrive in Pakistan for 326th Baisakhi Mela 2025

LAHORE – Sikh pilgrims from around the world have started arriving in Pakistan to participate in the 326th Baisakhi Mela, which officially begins today and will continue till April 19, 2025.

According to officials, this year’s Baisakhi celebrations are witnessing a record number of participants, with around 20,000 local pilgrims, 3,000 from the Sikh diaspora, and nearly 7,000 pilgrims from India and other countries expected to attend.

A large number of Sikh pilgrims from India crossed into Pakistan through the Wagah Border, where they were warmly received by Secretary Evacuee Property Trust Board (ETPB) Farid Iqbal and other officials.

This year, Pakistan issued 6,629 visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims for Baisakhi — a significant increase from the usual annual quota. This move is being seen as a gesture of goodwill and interfaith harmony, marking the highest number of visas issued for the festival in over five decades.

The Punjab Home Department has made comprehensive security arrangements for the safety of all pilgrims. Strict security measures have been implemented at religious sites, accommodations, and during transportation to ensure a peaceful celebration.

The ETPB has also arranged transport, accommodation, and meals for the pilgrims, while medical teams and emergency services are on standby throughout the festivities.

Baisakhi holds great religious importance for the Sikh community, marking the formation of the Khalsa in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh. In Pakistan, the main celebrations take place at Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hassan Abdal, along with other historical Sikh sites in Punjab.

Pilgrims will visit several sacred sites during their stay, including:

• Gurdwara Panja Sahib (Hassan Abdal)
• Gurdwara Nankana Sahib
• Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib

Officials say the hosting of thousands of Sikh pilgrims is a reflection of Pakistan’s commitment to promoting religious freedom, peace, and interfaith harmony.