The corridor's symbolic foundation stones were laid in November 2018 by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Indian Vice President Venkaiah Naidu. The inauguration featured readings of poetry about Guru Nanak from Muhammad Iqbal's Bang-e-Dara by former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and Pakistani speakers.
Phir uThii aaKHir sadaa tauhiid kii Punjab se
Hind ko ik mard-e-kaamil ne jagaayaa KHvaab se
Darbar Kartarpur Sahib: My Reflections
By Zafar Iqbal
Kartarpur, Pakistan
Kartarpur, situated in the Shakargarh Tehsil of the Narowal District in Punjab, Pakistan, is a town of profound historical and spiritual significance, located approximately two hours' drive from Lahore. Established by Guru Nanak in 1504, Kartarpur holds the distinction of being the site of the first Sikh commune. However, following Guru Nanak's passing in 1539, a legend emerged about a dispute between local Hindus and Muslims regarding the final rites of Guru Nanak. Despite conflicting claims, the legend suggests that Guru Nanak's body transformed into flowers, symbolically shared between the two communities.
On November 9, 2019, the Kartarpur Corridor was inaugurated, serving as a visa-free passageway connecting Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan to Gurudwara Dera Baba Nanak in India. This corridor, established to commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, allows Indian devotees unhindered access to Kartarpur, while Pakistani Sikhs need an Indian visa or work permit to reach Dera Baba Nanak.
In August 2019, India and Pakistan agreed to facilitate visa-free travel to Kartarpur for Indian citizens. The corridor's symbolic foundation stones were laid in November 2018 by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Indian Vice President Venkaiah Naidu. The inauguration featured readings of poetry about Guru Nanak from Muhammad Iqbal's Bang-e-Dara by former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and Pakistani speakers.
Phir uThii aaKHir sadaa tauhiid kii Punjab se
Hind ko ik mard-e-kaamil ne jagaayaa KHvaab se
The Kartarpur Corridor, marking a milestone in India-Pakistan cross-border relations, concluded its initial phase in November 2019. Serving as a testament to unity through Guru Nanak's universal symbolism, the corridor fosters connections among people of diverse religions.
Kartarpur Sahib is home to a 500-year-old well made of small red bricks, believed to have been constructed during Guru Nanak Dev's lifetime. As one of the holiest sites in Sikhism, it stands alongside the Golden Temple in Amritsar and Gurdwara Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib, with its visibility from the Indian side drawing large numbers of Indian Sikhs for sacred viewing.
Approaching Kartarpur Sahib, the serene landscape and tranquil surroundings create a moving experience. The Gurdwara, majestically positioned on the banks of the Ravi River, radiates with a pristine white structure and glistening golden domes. The atmosphere resonates with devotion, accompanied by melodious hymns and prayers.
Upon entering the Gurdwara complex, visitors encounter the langar, a community kitchen embodying Sikh values of equality and compassion by providing free meals to all. Pilgrims often participate, reinforcing a sense of community and brotherhood. In the main prayer hall, the Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism's holy scripture, is revered, offering devotees a space for silent contemplation amid the rich historical and artistic narrative depicting Sikh teachings.
A visit to Kartarpur Sahib transcends physical boundaries, becoming a spiritual odyssey. It leaves an indelible mark on hearts and souls, fostering a deeper understanding of Sikhism and the values it espouses.
Our visit to the Kartarpur Corridor, on 18 th February 2024, was arranged by the caretaker minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Mr Aneeq Ahmed. We were received by the CEO Mr Bubakar and his staff. I was very much impressed by the courtesy and hospitality provided by the staff, namely, Deputy CEO Mr Saifullah Khokar, Administration Officer Mr Raja Kamran, and Protocol Officer Mr Naukhaiz Hassan.
