Baisakhi: Pakistan Sets a Historic Precedent with Record Visa Approval for Sikh Pilgrims

In a landmark act of interfaith diplomacy, Pakistan has issued 6,629 visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims for Baisakhi 2025—more than double the usual annual quota.

This unprecedented move marks the first such surge in over five decades and underscores Pakistan’s commitment to religious freedom and regional harmony.

The visas allow thousands of yatrees to visit some of the most sacred Sikh sites in Pakistan, including Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

This record-setting initiative stands as a beacon of spiritual diplomacy in a region often mired in political strife. While tensions between India and Pakistan persist, Pakistan’s gesture has garnered international recognition for placing cultural and religious values above political divides. At a time when India is tightening its visa policies, particularly for religious minorities, Pakistan’s open-handed approach has been seen as a powerful contrast and a statement of intent for interfaith outreach.

The expansion from the traditional 3,000 visa cap to 6,629 has sparked an outpouring of goodwill across Indian Punjab. Sikh communities are celebrating this as a diplomatic victory and a spiritual milestone. For many pilgrims, visiting shrines such as Nankana Sahib, Panja Sahib, and Kartarpur has long been a cherished dream—now realized through Pakistan’s thoughtful facilitation.

This bold visa initiative also strengthens Pakistan’s global image as a country that prioritizes heritage, hospitality, and human connection. It reaffirms the nation’s dedication to preserving the cultural and spiritual ties that transcend borders. The move has not only revived ancient bonds but has also introduced a new paradigm in regional diplomacy—one where compassion and cultural respect serve as potent tools for peace.

As thousands of Sikh devotees make their way to Pakistan for Baisakhi 2025, the festival has become more than a religious celebration—it’s now a symbol of hope, unity, and cross-border kinship. Pakistan’s initiative highlights how nations can lead with empathy, using faith as a unifying force in divisive times.

With this historic decision, Pakistan has not just opened its borders—it has opened hearts, setting a powerful example for the world: when diplomacy meets devotion, peace has a chance to prevail.