Indian Hindu Pilgrims Arrive in Pakistan for Religious Rituals at Katas Raj Temple

A 71-member delegation of Indian Hindu pilgrims, led by Vijay Kumar Sharma, crossed the Wagah Border into Pakistan to participate in religious ceremonies at the Katas Raj Temple in Chakwal. The pilgrims were warmly received by Saif Ullah Khokhar, Additional Secretary (Shrines) of the Evacuee Trust Property Board, and Krishna Sharma, President of the Pakistan Hindu Temple Management Committee, who presented them with floral bouquets on behalf of Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain and Syed Atta-ur-Rehman, Chairman of the Evacuee Trust Property Board.

Speaking to the media at the Wagah Border, Sharma expressed that the visit is a symbol of peace and love, noting that each trip to Pakistan has seen improved arrangements for the pilgrims. He thanked the Evacuee Trust Property Board for their hospitality.

Saif Ullah Khokhar shared that under the guidance of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Syed Atta-ur-Rehman, comprehensive arrangements had been made for the security, accommodation, and transportation of the pilgrims.

Krishna Sharma assured that Hindu religious sites in Pakistan remain secure, with the Evacuee Trust Property Board responsible for their upkeep and restoration.

According to Umar Javed Awan, Deputy Secretary-General (Shrines), the pilgrims will travel to Katas Raj Temple via special buses. On December 21, the group will perform the Bhanu Saptami ceremony, and in the evening, they will take part in the Deep Mala ritual, lighting oil lamps. The delegation’s seven-day visit will conclude on December 25.