“People of All Religions Live Together in Pakistan with Mutual Respect and Peace”: Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora

By Farzana Chaudhry, Lahore, Pakistan
Lahore, Pakistan — The eighth day of the twelve-day Christmas celebrations in Punjab began with the grand Christmas Interfaith Cycling Heritage Ride, organized under the leadership of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif. Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, attended the event as the chief guest.
The minister inaugurated the ride by cutting the ribbon and personally leading the rally on a bicycle. Citizens from various faiths—including Christians, Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and others—participated enthusiastically. The ride commenced at Naulakha Church and passed through the historic sites of the Walled City of Lahore, aiming to highlight Lahore’s cultural heritage and promote interfaith harmony. The event was organized in collaboration with the Human Rights and Minority Affairs Department.
Addressing the participants, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora said that people of all religions gathered in the heart of Lahore, reflecting the vision of Pakistan as conceived by its founders. He emphasized that followers of Hinduism, Christianity, Sikhism, and other religions live together in Pakistan with mutual respect and peace.
He added that the cycling ride symbolizes interfaith peace and brotherhood, noting that for the first time in history, an eight-kilometer-long Christmas rally was held on Mall Road at the start of the celebrations, showcasing Pakistan’s positive image to the world.
The minister highlighted that Christmas conveys a message of joy, peace, and religious harmony, and acknowledged the contributions of the Christian community to Pakistan’s development since independence. He reaffirmed that under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s leadership, minority rights are being practically protected, and minorities can safely celebrate their religious rituals and festivals without fear.
The twelve-day Christmas celebrations aim to send a clear message globally that Christmas in Pakistan is celebrated with happiness, peace, and interfaith harmony. Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora also announced that on 22 December, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif will cut the Christmas cake, further highlighting the inclusive celebrations.
This event underscores Pakistan’s commitment to religious tolerance, cultural diversity, and the promotion of peace among all communities.