Indian Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has expressed a desire to visit Pakistan to attend an international Punjabi conference scheduled to take place in Lahore from November 27 to 29. Mann revealed his interest during a session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly, saying he had received an invitation from Pakistani Punjabi poet Baba Najmi.
The event, known as the Fourth International Punjabi Conference, is expected to bring together participants connected through Punjabi language, literature and cultural heritage. Lahore, a major centre of Punjabi culture, is set to host the gathering later this year.
During his remarks, Mann also took aim at India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, questioning whether it would allow him to travel to Pakistan for the event. His comments have brought attention to the political and diplomatic considerations surrounding cross-border visits between the two countries.
Despite longstanding tensions between India and Pakistan, Punjabi culture and language remain important shared links across the border. Writers, poets and cultural organisations have often highlighted the value of maintaining connections through literature and artistic exchange.
Whether Mann will be able to attend the Lahore conference remains uncertain, with any visit dependent on the necessary permissions and arrangements.
