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Nankana Sahib Gears Up for 556th Birth Anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji: A Celebration of Faith, Harmony, and Heritage
Preparations have reached their final stage in Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji, as the city prepares to welcome thousands of devotees and visitors from around the world for the 556th birth anniversary celebrations of the founder of Sikhism. The district administration has officially declared a three-day public holiday for all government and private educational institutions to facilitate the influx of pilgrims and ensure smooth management of the religious and cultural events.
The announcement marks the beginning of one of the most spiritually significant and widely celebrated festivals for the Sikh community globally — an event that symbolizes unity, devotion, and the universal message of peace and equality preached by Guru Nanak Dev Ji more than five centuries ago.
As the sacred city of Nankana Sahib transforms into a hub of festivity, faith, and brotherhood, every corner of the district reflects the vibrant colors of Sikh culture, while preparations by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC), and the local administration underscore the government’s commitment to honoring the religious freedom and heritage of minorities in Pakistan.
The Sacred City: Nankana Sahib’s Spiritual Legacy
Nankana Sahib, located approximately 75 kilometers from Lahore, holds unparalleled importance in the Sikh faith. It is not merely a geographical location but the spiritual heart of Sikhism. The city is home to Gurdwara Janam Asthan, the sacred site where Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469. This revered place attracts tens of thousands of devotees annually, both from within Pakistan and from across the world, including India, the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, Malaysia, and Australia.
The significance of this year’s celebrations lies not only in their scale but also in their message — one of interfaith harmony, respect, and gratitude. For centuries, Nankana Sahib has stood as a symbol of coexistence, a place where the teachings of love, service (Seva), and compassion continue to guide humanity.
Administrative Readiness and Security Measures
In preparation for the massive influx of pilgrims, the district administration, under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner Nankana Sahib Dr. Hafiz Shakir Mehmood, has finalized extensive arrangements to ensure the comfort, safety, and convenience of all attendees. A comprehensive plan includes enhanced security protocols, sanitation services, health facilities, and traffic management systems.
More than 4,000 security personnel, including police, Rangers, and special units, will be deployed throughout the district. Security cameras have been installed at all major entry points, and a central monitoring control room has been established to coordinate emergency responses.
The Punjab Safe Cities Authority (PSCA) has also integrated Nankana Sahib’s security grid with Lahore’s command center for real-time surveillance. These measures reflect Pakistan’s consistent efforts to provide a peaceful environment for pilgrims of all faiths, reinforcing the government’s dedication to religious harmony and inclusivity.
Infrastructure and Hospitality Arrangements
This year’s celebrations will see the largest-ever attendance of international pilgrims since the pandemic era. To accommodate them, the ETPB has renovated several guest houses (Sarais) near the gurdwaras, expanded langar halls (community kitchens), and improved transportation routes leading to the city.
The Pakistan Railways has announced special trains from Lahore and Karachi to Nankana Sahib, while shuttle bus services will operate between Lahore airport and the gurdwara complex.
Local businesses, hotels, and volunteer groups have also joined hands to extend hospitality to the visitors. Streets have been illuminated, walls painted with calligraphy of Guru Nanak’s verses, and floral decorations now adorn the city’s main boulevards. The community’s spirit of service and selflessness — a reflection of Guru Nanak’s teaching of Seva — is visible everywhere.
Spiritual and Cultural Activities
The 556th Gurpurab will feature a week-long series of religious rituals and cultural events. The celebrations will officially begin with Akhand Path Sahib, the continuous recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of Sikhism), followed by Kirtan, Ardas (prayer), and Langar Seva, where devotees share meals regardless of caste, creed, or background.
Cultural processions will showcase Sikh heritage through traditional music, martial arts (Gatka), folk performances, and exhibitions of historical manuscripts and relics associated with Guru Nanak’s life. The Punjab Arts Council and Sikh Heritage Foundation have jointly organized an art exhibition titled “Nanak: The Light of Humanity”, displaying rare paintings and calligraphy inspired by Guru Nanak’s teachings.
A special documentary screening by the Ministry of Information and Culture will narrate Guru Nanak’s journeys — known as Udasis — across Asia and the Middle East, emphasizing his universal message of divine unity and compassion for all living beings.
Pilgrims from Around the World
Thousands of Sikh pilgrims from across the globe have begun arriving in Pakistan through the Wagah border and the Kartarpur Corridor, which connects Dera Baba Nanak in India to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan. The corridor, inaugurated in 2019 as a peace initiative, has once again become a symbol of cross-border faith and friendship.
Indian pilgrims expressed deep gratitude to the Government of Pakistan for facilitating their travel. “Coming to Nankana Sahib feels like coming home,” said Manjit Kaur, a pilgrim from Amritsar. “Every year, we feel welcomed with love and respect.”
The ETPB Chairman Dr. Aamer Ahmed confirmed that over 12,000 foreign pilgrims have registered for participation this year — a significant increase from previous years. Additional facilities, including medical camps and interpretation services, have been arranged to support visitors from diverse backgrounds.
The Essence of Guru Nanak’s Message
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings transcend religious boundaries. He preached equality, truth, humility, and the unity of God, emphasizing that service to humanity is service to the Divine. His verses, compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, reject discrimination based on caste, creed, or gender.
Guru Nanak’s philosophy — “Ik Onkar” (There is One God) — remains a timeless call for harmony in a divided world. His message continues to resonate in an era where conflict, intolerance, and inequality persist. The 556th anniversary is thus more than a ritual celebration; it is a reminder of moral renewal and universal brotherhood.
Throughout his life, Guru Nanak traveled extensively — from Tibet to Baghdad, from Sri Lanka to Mecca — spreading the light of wisdom, peace, and unity. He encouraged dialogue between communities and taught that compassion and honesty form the foundation of spiritual living.
Government’s Role in Promoting Religious Harmony
Pakistan’s government, under the guidance of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, has long emphasized protecting the rights of minorities and preserving their sacred sites. Nankana Sahib stands as a testament to this commitment.
Prime Minister’s Office released a statement ahead of the Gurpurab celebrations, reiterating that “Pakistan remains proud to host the birthplace of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji and continues to honor its pledge to protect Sikh heritage as part of its national identity.”
The Evacuee Trust Property Board, responsible for managing Sikh and Hindu religious properties, has undertaken multiple projects — including the restoration of historical gurdwaras, renovation of roads, and upgrading of utilities — as part of the Nankana Development Vision 2030.
Provincial authorities have also introduced eco-friendly waste management systems and solar-powered lighting near the gurdwara complex, symbolizing a blend of tradition and modern sustainability.
Interfaith Harmony and Global Recognition
The Gurpurab festivities in Nankana Sahib attract not only Sikhs but also followers of different faiths who come to witness the message of inclusivity. Christian, Muslim, and Hindu community representatives are expected to participate in interfaith dialogues and cultural harmony sessions.
In recent years, Pakistan’s efforts to facilitate Sikh pilgrimages have received international praise. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognized Nankana Sahib as a key heritage site promoting global interfaith understanding.
Foreign diplomats based in Islamabad have also been invited to attend the anniversary events, reinforcing the image of Pakistan as a custodian of pluralism and peace. Such initiatives reflect the enduring legacy of Guru Nanak’s teachings, which align with the modern values of tolerance and human dignity.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Beyond its spiritual significance, the annual Gurpurab celebration provides a major economic and cultural boost to Nankana Sahib and surrounding areas. Local vendors, artisans, and food sellers benefit from the influx of pilgrims. The festival serves as an opportunity to promote handicrafts, traditional Punjabi music, and cuisine.
Special cultural stalls showcasing Phulkari embroidery, Punjabi folk art, handmade jewelry, and wooden carvings have been set up in collaboration with the Punjab Small Industries Corporation (PSIC). Tourism experts note that faith-based events like these play a crucial role in enhancing Pakistan’s image as a destination of spiritual tourism.
With improved infrastructure and cross-border cooperation, Nankana Sahib is gradually emerging as a global pilgrimage center comparable to Amritsar’s Golden Temple in India.
Educational and Awareness Programs
In conjunction with the festivities, educational institutions across Punjab have organized seminars, essay competitions, and lectures highlighting Guru Nanak’s philosophy of social justice, education, and environmental stewardship.
A special academic symposium titled “Guru Nanak’s Vision: Harmony Beyond Borders” will be hosted at the University of the Punjab, featuring scholars from India, the UK, and Canada. The event aims to foster academic dialogue around Guru Nanak’s contributions to interfaith ethics and sustainable living.
In schools and colleges of Nankana Sahib, teachers are encouraging students to learn about the Guru’s principles of honesty, equality, and kindness, ensuring that his teachings continue to inspire future generations.
Environmental Initiatives: A Green Gurpurab
In alignment with Guru Nanak’s message of respecting nature, the district administration and volunteer groups have launched a “Green Nankana Sahib” campaign during the celebrations. Thousands of trees will be planted across the district, symbolizing renewal and ecological responsibility.
Plastic use around the gurdwara complex has been banned, and eco-friendly materials are being utilized for decoration. Solar panels have been installed to power lighting and sound systems during the events.
Environmentalists have praised the initiative, noting that it reflects the essence of Guru Nanak’s teaching — “Pavan Guru, Pani Pita, Mata Dharat Mahat” (Air is the Guru, Water is the Father, and Earth is the Great Mother).
Voices of Devotion and Gratitude
The spiritual atmosphere in Nankana Sahib is electric yet serene. Pilgrims describe an overwhelming sense of connection and peace upon entering the city. The air resonates with the sound of “Satnam Waheguru”, echoing through the streets as devotees bow in reverence before the sanctum of Gurdwara Janam Asthan.
“Every time I come here, I feel like Guru Nanak’s presence surrounds me,” says Harpreet Singh, a pilgrim from Vancouver. “It’s not just a visit — it’s a rebirth of the soul.”
Volunteers work tirelessly in the langar halls, serving thousands of meals daily, embodying the Sikh ideal of selfless service. Locals, regardless of faith, participate with joy, helping clean the streets, guide pilgrims, and distribute food. This harmony and generosity epitomize the inclusive message that Guru Nanak championed centuries ago.
A Message of Hope for the Future
In an age defined by division and strife, the celebration of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth serves as a beacon of unity and compassion. His timeless message — that all humans are equal, that love transcends boundaries, and that service is the highest form of devotion — remains profoundly relevant.
Pakistan’s commitment to preserving this sacred heritage reaffirms its dedication to building bridges between communities, both locally and internationally.
