Kartarpur Sahib Marg Initiative – The Peace Corridor

United Sikh Mission has undertaken this initiative in attempt to educate everyone the significance of this religious Sikh temple (gurdwara) while it can also bring an era of peace between the two conflicting countries. Kartarpur Sahib is situated near the India and Pakistan border; however, it is located in Pakistan. This is the place where Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder and the first guru of Sikhism, spent the last 17 years of his life spreading the message of love, Satsang (universal brotherhood), love of Naam Simran (meditation), sewa (selfless service), charity, honest living and humility of work. During the time Guru Nanak Dev Ji spent in Kartarpur Sahib it became a major religious center of utmost importance to the followers of Sikh faith, Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs.

In addition, when Guru Nanak Ji passed away in 1539 AD, the question arose whether his body should be buried the Islamic way or cremated according to Hindu rituals. According to historical narration, both religions eventually agreed to perform their rituals. As such, a samadhi (Hindu tradition) lies in the Gurdwara and a grave (according to Muslim traditions) lies on the premises. Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, through its rich history has become a unique place where three Shrines of Guru Nanak Ji exist in the form of an Islamic grave, Hindu samadhi and Sikh as Angitha. As such, Gurdwara Darbar Sahib – at Kartarpur Sahib, also became a symbol of religious harmony, peace and co-existence of people of different faiths.

Currently, a limited number of devotees from India can visit Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur Sahib annually, with special permission from Government of Pakistan, to hold congregation. The journey also requires long route to cross the border. Since most of the devotees’ desire to visit this shrine more frequently, it will be highly desirable and expeditious to have a direct route between the border crossing at Dera Baba Nank to Darbar Shaib, Kartarpur Sahib. At a distance of nearly 4.5 km, the trip to Kartarpur Sahib could be made as a day trip. This direct path will be named the PEACE CORRIDOR that will also help facilitate peaceful relations and build better understanding between the two rivalry nations – India and Pakistan, who share a common history. Thus, the opening of Kartarpur Sahib will usher into an era of peace between both countries.