Pakistan reaffirms commitment to interfaith harmony on Guru Nanak Jayanti
“Views & Opinions”
Manzar Naqvi
Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji Birth Anniversary Celebrated with Unity and Peace
Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji Birth Anniversary was observed across Pakistan and worldwide on November 5, marking the 556th birthday of the revered founder of Sikhism. The celebrations were filled with reverence, devotion, and messages promoting peace, tolerance, and interfaith harmony.
Pakistan once again reaffirmed its dedication to protecting religious minorities and fostering mutual respect among faith communities.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Pays Tribute to Guru Nanak’s Teachings
In his official message, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt felicitations to the global Sikh community. He described Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji as a visionary spiritual leader whose message transcends religious boundaries.
“Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught humanity the eternal values of peace, equality, and compassion,” the Prime Minister stated in a message from the PM Office Media Wing.
He added that Guru Nanak’s principles of love, selfless service, and unity continue to inspire people around the world.
“His message of tolerance and harmony serves as a beacon for building a peaceful, justice-based society,” he said.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Protect Minorities and Sacred Sites
The Prime Minister reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to protecting the rights of all religious minorities and ensuring the safety of their sacred places.
“We guarantee every possible facility to pilgrims visiting Pakistan’s holy Gurdwaras so they can worship freely and safely,” he affirmed.
Shehbaz Sharif noted with pride that Pakistan is the custodian of multiple Gurdwaras associated with the life of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji—particularly the Gurdwara Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib. Thousands of Sikh pilgrims from India, the UK, Canada, and other countries are welcomed annually to these spiritual landmarks.
Festivities and Pilgrimage at Nankana Sahib and Kartarpur Corridor
Special prayers, hymns, processions, and langar (community meals) marked the celebrations throughout Pakistan.
Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Baba Guru Nanak, served as the focal point, hosting thousands of pilgrims and dignitaries.
Meanwhile, the Kartarpur Corridor—a symbol of peace and interfaith understanding—saw a significant influx of visitors, reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and religious freedom.
Religious leaders and diplomats praised Pakistan’s gesture of hospitality, calling it “a true reflection of Guru Nanak’s message of love and coexistence.”
Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji Birth Anniversary Highlights Interfaith Harmony
Scholars and representatives of the Sikh community expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s continuous efforts to preserve Sikh heritage sites. They said such acts build friendship and mutual respect between communities.
Pakistan’s leadership emphasized that promoting interfaith harmony is essential for global peace, echoing Guru Nanak’s timeless teachings of compassion, equality, and unity.
“Peace begins with understanding and flourishes where respect transcends boundaries,” the statement concluded.
