187th Death Anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Observed in Lahore
The ceremony took place in an atmosphere of religious devotion, respect, and interfaith harmony, with participation from Sikh pilgrims arriving from India and other countries, alongside officials of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, religious leaders, and dignitaries.
The chief guest at the event was Secretary of the Evacuee Trust Property Board, Nasir Mushtaq. Punjab’s Minister for Minority Affairs and PSGPC President Ramesh Singh Arora, Secretary General Satwant Kaur, Professor Mampal Singh, and other leaders also attended.
In his address, Nasir Mushtaq said that under the special directives of ETPB Chairman Qamar-ul-Zaman, exemplary arrangements were made for Sikh pilgrims, including accommodation, langar, transportation, medical camps, ambulances, security, and other essential facilities.
He emphasized that Pakistan continues to fulfill its responsibilities toward protecting minority religious rights, preserving sacred worship sites, and promoting interfaith harmony.
Ramesh Singh Arora stated that the Sikh community in Pakistan enjoys full religious freedom and that pilgrims from around the world return with messages of peace, love, and brotherhood. He also appreciated the arrangements made by the Government of Pakistan and stressed the need for full restoration of the Kartarpur Corridor.
Indian Sikh pilgrims also praised the arrangements during their stay in Pakistan. Pilgrim Harjinder Kaur said the beauty, cleanliness, and maintenance of Pakistan’s historic gurdwaras had improved significantly. Group leader Khushwinder Singh described the accommodation, langar, transport, and medical services as exemplary, while Harwinder Singh said Pakistan’s hospitality would always be remembered.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, commemorative shields and special gifts were distributed among the leaders of the Indian Sikh delegation.