A group of Sikh pilgrims returned to India on Friday after completing a religious visit to Pakistan, where they participated in commemorative events related to the martyrdom anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev Ji and paid obeisance at several historic gurdwaras.
The pilgrims crossed back into India amid chants of religious slogans and a warm welcome from family members and members of the Sikh community. According to those who were part of the delegation, the journey provided an opportunity to visit important Sikh shrines in Pakistan and take part in religious observances associated with the Shaheedi Divas of Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
Several members of the group described the visit as spiritually enriching and said they were received with warmth and respect during their stay. Pilgrims said they not only visited major gurdwaras linked to Sikh history but also had the opportunity to interact with residents and explore markets in different cities.
Speaking to reporters after returning, members of the delegation said the hospitality extended to them throughout the visit left a lasting impression. They noted that local people treated the visitors with great respect and helped make the pilgrimage comfortable and memorable.
One elderly pilgrim said security arrangements during this year’s visit appeared stricter than in the past. He recalled that concerns had been raised following an incident during a previous pilgrimage when a woman travelling with a religious group did not return with the delegation. As a result, authorities reportedly maintained enhanced monitoring and security measures throughout the current visit.
Members of the group said they were able to pay obeisance at all major Sikh religious sites included in the pilgrimage programme before returning home. They added that the journey offered a unique opportunity to reconnect with places of deep historical and spiritual significance for the Sikh community.
According to information shared by the pilgrims, a total of 517 devotees returned to India as part of the delegation. Participants described the visit as a meaningful religious experience and said the pilgrimage strengthened their connection with Sikh heritage and history.
The return of the delegation marks the conclusion of the annual cross-border religious visit organised to enable Sikh devotees to pay respects at revered shrines located in Pakistan.