Sikh yatrees praise hospitality, security arrangements at Panja Sahib

The annual Baisakhi festival is being celebrated with religious fervor at the historic Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hassan Abdal. Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and local administration made arrangements for thousands of Sikh Yatrees from India and other countries. 

ETPB spokesperson said a total of 5,890 Sikh pilgrims from India have arrived in Pakistan for the festival. The jatha (group) was divided into two batches — the first group, comprising 60 buses, arrived at Gurdwara Panja Sahib via Wagah Border, while the second group traveled late last night to Gurdwara Sahib Kartarpur. 

The pilgrims are freely performing their religious rituals and have expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made by the Pakistani government, including security, accommodation, medical care, and langar (free meals). Many pilgrims also thanked the government and people of Pakistan for their hospitality and warm welcome. 

ETPB spokesperson said the board and local authorities are fully engaged in providing services and ensuring a smooth experience for the visiting pilgrims. 

Saifullah Khokhar, an ETPB official, stated that all necessary facilities — including lodging, food, and healthcare — have been arranged on priority. The Indian pilgrims will spend the night in Hassan Abdal, while Baisakhi celebrations will continue over the coming days.