On Sunday, 14 April 2024, Ambassador Azhar attended a Baisakhi festival at Gurdwara Panja Sahib, Hasan Abdal. Ambassador Azhar was accompanied by officials of the High Commission.
Around 35,000 pilgrims from different parts of the world, including 2,700 Sikh from India, converged at Gurdwara Panja Sahib to partake in sacred rituals and festivities. The Sikh pilgrims engaged in prayers and communal meals (langar) at Gurdwara Panja Sahib, They also performed the “Ashnan ritual”, in which several pilgrims take a dip in the sacred water pool within the “Gurdwara complex”.
Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif graced the main event of the Baisakhi festival as a special guest. He emphasized the significance of hosting foreign pilgrims and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring the rights and protection of minorities. He added that it was a matter of pride for Pakistan to host more than 35,000 foreign pilgrims.
The event served as a poignant reminder of the bonds of faith and fraternity that transcend borders, uniting devotees in a shared celebration of spirituality and cultural heritage.
