CHAKWAL, (TDI): To promote interfaith harmony and boost religious tourism, Pakistan has unveiled a modern residential facility at the historic Katas Raj Temple complex in Chakwal, Punjab.
This initiative aims to accommodate Hindu pilgrims visiting the sacred site from India and around the world.
The newly constructed residential block, which cost Rs183.510 million, features 36 rooms with attached washrooms, a kitchen, and a dining hall to provide a comfortable stay for visitors.
This project highlights Pakistan’s dedication to preserving its sacred religious sites and improving the experience for those visiting one of Hinduism’s holiest locations.
The residential facility was inaugurated by Pakistan’s Minister for Religious Affairs, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, who emphasized the importance of Katas Raj as a symbol of Pakistan’s commitment to interfaith dialogue and peace.
The minister also called for an increase in the annual quota of 200 Indian pilgrims allowed to visit the site, stressing the need to expand opportunities for religious tourism.
Where are the Katas Raj Temples Located?
The Katas Raj Temples are situated in the scenic Potohar region near Chakwal, in Punjab, Pakistan.
This sacred complex, dedicated to various Hindu deities, is one of the most revered sites in Hindu mythology.
The Katas Raj Temple, also known as Amin Katas Raj locally, comprises twelve beautifully constructed temples, each a reflection of over 5,000 years of Hindu culture, faith, and history.
The temples are set amidst a tranquil landscape, offering spiritual solace and inspiration to Hindu pilgrims from across the globe.
A Legacy of Katas Raj Temple
At the heart of the Katas Raj complex lies the sacred ‘Amrit Kund Pond,’ a site deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, the pond was formed from the tears of Lord Shiva, who wept for the loss of his beloved wife, Sati.
The name “Katas” is derived from the Sanskrit word Kataksha, meaning “teary eyes,” a tribute to Shiva’s mourning.
It is also believed that the Pandawa brothers from the Mahabharata visited this site during their exile, adding further historical and mythological significance to the location.
Katas Raj holds spiritual importance not only for Hindus but also for other faiths. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, is believed to have visited the site, which has long been a hub for sages and spiritual seekers.
Facilitating Religious Tourism
Pakistan has been actively working to enhance religious tourism, attracting visitors to explore the country’s rich cultural and religious diversity.
Earlier, Foreign Office Spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, emphasised the government’s efforts to create a welcoming environment for Hindu and Sikh pilgrims, especially from India.
The aim is to enhance religious tourism by improving infrastructure and simplifying visa procedures, making it easier for pilgrims to visit sacred sites.
Also Read: Pakistan Welcomes Indian Pilgrims
Baloch highlighted that pilgrims come not only to perform their religious rituals but also to experience Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.
Pandit Neem Chand, the caretaker of the Katas Raj Temple, noted that the temple attracts numerous Hindu pilgrims from around the world who come to perform their sacred rites. He also shared that out of the 12 temples in the complex, only one is currently open to the public.
Also Read: Pakistan Grants Visas to Hindu Pilgrims
Chaudhry Salik Hussain, the Minister for Religious Affairs, reiterated the need to increase the annual quota of 200 Indian pilgrims allowed to visit the Katas Raj Temple, calling it an important step in fostering interfaith understanding and promoting religious tourism.
His remarks follow India’s reluctance to increase the number of Pakistani pilgrims visiting the annual Urs of Hazrat Khawaja Syed Moinuddin Hasan Chishti (RA) at Ajmer Sharif.
Despite this, the Minister affirmed that Pakistan would seek to increase the number of Indian pilgrims visiting the country, regardless of India’s stance on the Ajmer Sharif pilgrimage.
