Bharatiya Janata Party chief Lal Kishenchand Advani on Thursday launched the restoration work of the ancient Shaivite shrine of Katasraj, about 30 km from Chakwal in Pakistan's Punjab.

"I feel happy. This initiative will add a new chapter and strengthen the ongoing peace process," an elated Advani told reporters in Chakwal after unveiling a plaque to mark the occasion.

Accompanied by his wife Kamala and daughter Pratibha, the BJP chief toured the temple ruins.

It is the first time since 1947 that an Indian political personality has been invited to launch the restoration of a Hindu temple in Pakistan.

Shujaat Hussain, President of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League (Quaid-e-Azam), an avataar of the Muslim League considered responsible for the subcontinent's partition, was present at the occasion.

'We travel hand-in-hand on the road to peace. We stand together on the way to peace' said banners put up by the Chakwal district government on way to second most sacred shrine of the Hindus in pre-partition Punjab.

Describing the event as 'landmark and historic,' Hussain said the stone marking the inauguration was in fact 'a milestone for peace'. "It will further strengthen the political process," he added.
 
Former Information Minister and Senator Syed Hussain termed the event as significant and said, "It would promote tolerance and co-existence in South Asia."

Conceding that the BJP leader is widely perceived in Pakistan as the man behind the Babri mosque demolition, Hussain said, "The important thing is to move forward."

Advani said that following his request to External Affairs Minister Natwar Singh two experts from the Archaeological Survey of India would be visiting Katasraj soon to assist their Pakistani counterparts in the restoration.

Pakistani officials said they estimated to spend around Rs 2 crore for the temple restoration.

Advani, who was accompanied by India's High Commissioner to Pakistan Shiv Shankar Menon, expressed hope that it would be possible for pilgrims from India to visit Katasraj in the near future.

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