 "A Pakistani Ranger and an Indian Border Security Force personnel perform during the 'Beating Retreat' ceremony at the border gates of Pakistan and India, at the Wagah border post near Lahore. AFP")
Amid the rising tensions between India and Pakistan, about 2,100 pilgrims were permitted a visa to celebrate the 10-day festival marking the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, as said by Pakistan’s High Commission (embassy) in New Delhi last week.
After the horrific Pahalgam terror attack, the relationship between the two countries has worsened. Tensions remain high between Islamabad and New Delhi since 1990, the worst fight that occurred in May. At least 70 people lost their lives in the missile and drone attack.
Pilgrims queued at Attari border
Pilgrims queued up on the Indian side of the Wagah-Attari border on Tuesday morning carrying luggage on their heads as the Indian Border Security Force looked upon the movement.
Dozens of Indians entered Pakistan to celebrate the festival under strict supervision. They all were received by Pakistani officials who presented them with flowers and showered them with rose petals.
Indian media reported around 1,700 were due to cross into Pakistan, although there was no immediate official confirmation from Indian authorities as reported by AFP.
Nankana Sahib to offer prayers
The pilgrims will gather on Wednesday at Nankana Sahib to offer prayers which is about 80 kilometres (50 miles) west of Lahore by road, and later visit other sacred sites in Pakistan.
Indian newspapers reported Saturday that the government would allow “selected” groups to travel to Pakistan.
Sikhism is a monotheistic religion born in the 15th century in Punjab, a region spanning parts of what is now India and Pakistan. While most of the Sikhs came to India while others remained in Pakistan during partition.