New Delhi, Nov 3 (NationPress) A contingent of 170 Sikh devotees set off for Pakistan from the historic Gurdwara Rakabganj in Delhi on Monday. They are making the pilgrimage to Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev, and Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal, in anticipation of Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Prakash Parv, which will be observed with immense devotion throughout India on November 5.

Prior to their departure, the pilgrims engaged in an Ardaas (prayer) ceremony at Gurdwara Rakabganj. This significant event was graced by Jagdeep Singh Kahlon, General Secretary of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), alongside other committee members. After the prayers, the community warmly bid farewell to the devotees.

This year, around 21,006 pilgrims from India have received visas from Pakistan to attend the celebrations at Nankana Sahib. The devotees expressed heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian government for their efforts in streamlining the visa process, especially following security concerns post-Operation Sindoor.

Kahlon remarked, "Following Operation Sindoor, the yatra was initially halted due to security issues. We appealed to the Union Home Minister for reconsideration, and ultimately, the pilgrims were granted their visas. The dedication of the Indian government is commendable; they have consistently maintained a special relationship with the Sikh community. The Prime Minister has often visited our gurdwaras, including Rakabganj, Sheeshganj Sahib, and Bangla Sahib."

Another devotee shared their joy about the pilgrimage, stating, "We are excited to travel to Pakistan. However, it would have been even better if the trip had been organized a bit earlier."

The pilgrims also noted their intention to partake in the upcoming 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, highlighting their profound dedication to Sikhism and its teachings.

Guru Nanak Jayanti, or Guru Nanak Gurpurab, commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism. It is one of the most significant festivals in the Sikh faith, celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Kartik (Kartik Purnima), typically occurring in October or November. The observance includes devotional singing (kirtan), processions, community prayers, and langar (community feasts) organized in gurdwaras worldwide.