LAHORE: 139 Hindu pilgrims arrived in Lahore from India by crossing the Wagah border on foot to attend the 314th birth anniversary of Shiv Avtari Satguru Sant Sawami Shadaram Sahib to be held at Hayat Pitafi, Mirpur Mathelo, Sindh.

The pilgrims expressed joy after being received warmly by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) officials led by the additional secretary (shrines).

“We are very happy about the arrangements made here by the ETPB to facilitate us in attending this event,” the pilgrims’ group leader Udaster Laal told the media at Wagah border.

According to the scheduled programme, the ETPB dispatched the pilgrims to Sindh by train under strict security measures.

From Nov 23 to 25, they will stay at Hayat Pitafi to attend the main ceremony and perform their religious rituals. On Nov 26, the pilgrims will visit Khanpur Mehr and Jarwar. They will also visit Ghotki (Adilpur), Sukkar (Pano Aqil, Sadhu Bela Mandir and Mathelo (Arore, Mata Kalka temple) on Nov 27, 28 and 29, respectively.

On Nov 29, the pilgrims will reach Mirpur Mathelo and stay at Shahndani Satasang Hall. On Dec 1 and 2, they will reach Dahrki and then visit Nankana Sahib.

On Dec 3, the pilgrims will return to India via Wagah border.

Published in Dawn, November 23rd, 2022