Post Operation Sindoor, first Sikh Jatha leaves for Pakistan to celebrate Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Parkash Purb at Nankana Sahib

PTC Web Desk: After Operation Sindoor, the first Sikh Jatha set out for Attari on Tuesday to cross over into Pakistan for the celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Parkash Purb at Gurdwara Janamsthan Nankana Sahib. The sacred occasion will be observed on November 5.

This year, the Central Government has granted permission exclusively to Indian citizens to participate in the pilgrimage, unlike previous years when NRIs were also allowed.

Around 2,000 pilgrims are expected to cross the Attari border to pay obeisance at historical gurdwaras in Lahore and Nankana Sahib. The pilgrims are scheduled to return to India on November 13, after completing their spiritual journey. This year’s Jatha also includes many first-time pilgrims who have long wished to visit Gurdwara Janamsthan.

Initially, the Centre had declined permission for the pilgrimage, citing security concerns due to recent drone exchanges between India and Pakistan. However, following appeals from Sikh organisations, the government later agreed to allow at least a symbolic Jatha, maintaining the long-standing tradition.

The SGPC arranged buses to ferry from Heritage Street near the Golden Temple to Attari, beginning at 8 am.