LAHORE (Nazrana Times): A new main entrance gate at Gurdwara Janam Asthan Nankana Sahib was inaugurated as part of celebrations marking Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s 557th birth anniversary. Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Secretary Nasir Mushtaq and Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora jointly inaugurated the gate.

Nankana Deputy Commissioner Rana Hameed, DPO Arslan Zahid, Sikh community representatives and ETPB officers were also present.

The Board undertook special measures to renovate, restore and beautify the Gurdwara and improve facilities for pilgrims. As part of the completed development work, the old main entrance was replaced with a new gate.

Arrangements for Pilgrims’ Reception

Speaking to the media, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora said Sikh pilgrims from around the world were coming to Pakistan to celebrate Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth anniversary. He said the ETPB, provincial institutions and other relevant bodies had made comprehensive arrangements for their reception and hospitality.

Arora described Sikh pilgrims visiting Pakistan as respected guests and “the crown of our head.”

Board Ready to Host Pilgrims, Says Nasir Mushtaq

ETPB Secretary Nasir Mushtaq said the Board was always ready to host Sikh pilgrims from India and other countries, regardless of their numbers.

He said special arrangements had been made for the birth anniversary celebrations under the instructions of ETPB Chairman Qamar Zaman. These covered accommodation, food, langar, transport, medical facilities, security and other necessities.

Mushtaq said replacing the main gate had further enhanced the Gurdwara’s appearance. He acknowledged the important contribution of Sardar Surjit Singh Kanwal and other Sikh community members to the work.

A Sacred Site in Sikh History

Gurdwara Janam Asthan Nankana Sahib is among Sikhism’s holiest and most historically significant places. It marks the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, and draws Sikh devotees from across the world.