The Guru Nanak celebration controversy in Pakistan has raised questions about religious sensitivity and respect. A “cultural programme” held near Gurdwara Sri Dehra Sahib in Lahore on Wednesday evening upset many Sikh devotees. They said the event violated the sanctity of the sacred site where Guru Arjan Dev Ji was martyred.
According to reports, the Pakistan government, along with the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) and the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), hosted the event. It reportedly featured bhangra, music, and dance performances. Several Sikh leaders argued that such acts went against the Sikh maryada (religious code).
Ramesh Singh Arora, Pakistan’s Minister for Minorities Affairs and president of PSGPC, rejected the criticism. He said the event was a Sufi night organised for Sikh pilgrims at Hazuri Bagh, not inside the gurdwara premises. He explained that it was a spiritual evening focused on unity and devotion, not entertainment.
Despite this clarification, the Guru Nanak celebration controversy continued to stir emotions. Many Sikh leaders urged authorities to maintain dignity at all religious sites. The main birth anniversary ceremony at Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Nankana Sahib, on November 7, remained peaceful.
Earlier, a separate issue arose when some Indian pilgrims were denied entry into Pakistan, adding to the tension. Community leaders have now called for more dialogue to prevent future misunderstandings.
