3-day celebrations conclude at Paonta Sahib Gurdwara
The 555th Parkash Purab of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the revered founder of the Sikhism, concluded with grandeur at the historic Paonta Sahib Gurdwara today. The three-day celebrations, infused with spirituality and cultural pride, drew devotees from across India. This annual event, marking the Guru’s birth anniversary, highlighted his timeless teachings of unity, humility and service.
The final day of the celebrations featured the solemn Nishan Sahib ceremony and Amrit Sanchar (baptism of the Sikhs), symbolising renewal and devotion. Hundreds of devotees thronged the gurdwara premises to witness spiritual activities. A nagar kirtan (religious procession), a key highlight, was led by the Panj Piaras, who carried the sacred Sikh flag and guided a parade of devotees through the town’s streets.
Colourful Gatka (Sikh martial arts) demonstrations captivated the crowd, with performers showcasing acrobatic and weapon-handling skills. Bands and ragi jathas provided a melodic backdrop to the festivities, singing religious hymns in praise of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
The nagar kirtan began from the gurdwara and went through the bustling Paonta Sahib market and the nearby areas. Devotees, including women and children, participated enthusiastically, reciting hymns and sweeping the procession path in a display of humility. The Guru’s palanquin, adorned with flowers, was a focal point of the procession. Along the route, community members set up stalls offering free refreshments like milk, tea, sweets and fruits to devotees, embodying the spirit of langar (community kitchen). The festivities culminated with a spectacular fireworks display, illuminating the night sky.
The Sikh community in Nahan, another significant town in Sirmaur and district headquarter, also celebrated birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji with devotional programmes. Nahan gurdwara hosted kirtans, prayer sessions and cultural events on the occasion. These celebrations echoed the values of equality and harmony advocated by the Guru.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings on equality, compassion and devotion to the divine continue to inspire millions. His universal message, emphasising that all humans were children of one God, transcends religious and cultural boundaries. The Parkash Purab celebrations reflected these ethos, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to honour his legacy.
The historic Paonta Sahib Gurdwara, a shrine visited by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the 10th Sikh Guru, added historical significance to the event. Devotees also reminisced about the gurdwara’s importance in Sikh history and its role as a spiritual centre.
The 555th Parkash Purab of Guru Nanak Dev Ji was not just a celebration of his birth, but a reaffirmation of the principles he stood for. The event underscored the vibrant cultural heritage of Sikhism and its relevance in fostering community bonds in today’s world. As the celebrations concluded, devotees carried with them the Guru’s timeless teachings, pledging to embody his ideals of service, compassion and devotion in their lives.
