Maryam Nawaz, the chief minister of Pakistan’s Punjab province, emphasized unity and peace while welcoming Sikh pilgrims from India at the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara on Thursday. This visit was part of the first official state-level celebrations of Baisakhi, the harvest festival of Punjab, and a significant event for Sikhs.
Addressing a gathering of about 2,400 Sikh pilgrims, Maryam recalled her father Nawaz Sharif’s vision of peace with neighboring countries, stating that “we should not fight with our neighbours. We need to open our hearts for them.” The Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara, located 130 km northeast of Lahore, holds special significance for Sikhs, as it is home to the samadhi of Guru Nanak, the first Sikh master.
Maryam, 50, known as the political heir of Nawaz Sharif and elected as the first woman chief minister in Pakistan in February, spoke about her connection to Punjab, saying, “I am a Pakistani, but I am a Punjabi too.” She shared personal stories of her family’s roots in Indian Punjab, mentioning her grandfather’s origin from Jati Umra, Amritsar. When a Punjabi Indian brought soil from Jati Umra, she placed it on her grandfather’s grave as a sign of respect.
During the event, Maryam highlighted her government’s commitment to inclusivity, announcing that Ramesh Singh Arora is the first Sikh minister in her administration. She also claimed credit for her father’s role in establishing the Kartarpur Corridor in 2013, which allows Indian Sikhs to visit the gurdwara without a visa.
Maryam noted that this year’s Baisakhi festival is the first to be celebrated at a government level in Pakistan, with festivities reflecting a broader commitment to religious and cultural harmony. “This is my Punjab and we are celebrating all festivals of minority communities such as Holi, Easter, and Baisakhi together,” she said.
The chief minister participated in the traditional activities at the gurdwara, sitting with the pilgrims in the sanctum and joining them for langar (community meal). She also interacted warmly with an elderly Indian woman from Amritsar, exchanging pleasantries and embracing her.
The event underscored a broader message of cross-border goodwill and a commitment to fostering positive relationships between Pakistan and India, with the hope of creating a more peaceful and inclusive future for the region.
