Founder of Sikhism, Baba Guru Nanak’s 547th birthday anniversary celebrations have kicked off on Monday while strict security arrangements have been made.
Entry and exit points of Gurdwara Janam Asthan have been cordoned off by police contingents. Akhand Path ritual was observed on Sunday night that marked the beginning of the celebrations. The celebrations will continue for three days.
The celebrations include different rituals including Shabad Kirtan, Matha Teki, Ardas, Ashnan and visits to gurdwaras.
Thousands of Sikhs from Afghanistan, England, Canada, India and United States (US) have come to the country to take part in the holy celebrations. Roads to Gurdwara Janam Asthan have been closed for all kinds of traffic.
A walk-through gate has been established at the entry point of the gurdawara. To ensure fool-proof security, luggage of visitors are being scanned.
Law enforcement agencies are monitoring the key gurdawara round the clock with CCTV cameras.
Earlier the Pakistani High Commission (HC) had issued visas to at least 2,850 Indians Sikhs. Spokesperson for the commission had said that visas were issued to almost all applicants without any delay. The visas grant Sikhs nine days in Pakistan from November 20 to November 29.
Earlier in the month, Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Chairman Sadiqul Farooq reviewed security plan for safe celebrations of the birth anniversary. The spokesperson for the board said that senior Sikh leaders, DPOs, DCOs, Rangers and other departments’ representatives attended the meeting. A plan was finalised to provide fool-proof security and reliable arrangements for the visitors.
The yatrees were received on November 20 by ETPB’s Chairman and secretary at Wahga among other officials.
Tags:
Religion