Sikh pilgrims on Thursday returned to India after attending a ceremony marking the 177th death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the founder of the Sikh empire at his mausoleum in Lahore.

Singh was a former Sikh ruler of the united Punjab region under the British colonial rule.

At least 448 Sikh pilgrims returned to their country via a special train after a 10-day stay in Lahore.

On this occasion, Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB)Chairman Siddiqul Farooq said that special security was provided to the Sikh pilgrims and government of Pakistan extended all possible hospitality.

He also distributed CDs among the pilgrims on which their memorable moments were filmed.

The Sikh pilgrims expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made by the government and said they were taking a message of goodwill to their home country.