Lahore, Pakistan: A group of 84 Hindu pilgrims from India crossed into Pakistan through the Wagah Border on Sunday to commemorate the 316th birth anniversary of Shiv Avtari Satguru Sant Shadaram Sahib at a shrine in Sindh province, according to officials. The pilgrimage is facilitated under the Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines, established in 1974.

"Leading the group is Yushishthar Lal, who, along with 83 other pilgrims, has come to celebrate the birth anniversary of Shri Guru Swami Shadaram, an incarnation of Lord Shiva," stated Ghulam Mohayuddin, a spokesperson for the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), in a conversation with PTI.

ETPB Additional Secretary of Shrines, Saifullah Khokhar, greeted the pilgrims at the Wagah Border, presenting them with flower bouquets on behalf of ETPB Chairman Syed Ata-ur-Rehman.

From the Wagah Border, the pilgrims traveled directly to the Shadani Darbar in Hayat Pitafi, Sindh, where the main events and religious ceremonies are planned.

During their visit, the group will also explore other significant religious sites, including the Yog Mata Mandir in Aqilpur, Ghotki, Pano Aqil, Sukkur, and the renowned Sadhu Bela Temple.

On January 14, the pilgrims will spend time at Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Sikhism’s founder Baba Guru Nanak, before returning to India the following day.

Speaking to reporters at the border, Saifullah Khokhar assured that comprehensive arrangements, including tight security and medical support, have been made for the pilgrims. He emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to safeguarding the holy sites of its religious minorities and facilitating the visits of international pilgrims.

Although 94 visas were issued for the occasion by the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, only 84 pilgrims chose to make the journey.