‘From Rabab to Nagara’ exhibition celebrates 555th Prakash Utsav of Guru Nanak Dev

Marking the 555th Prakash Utsav of Guru Nanak Dev, Gurdwara Bangla Sahib opened its doors to a unique and captivating exhibition, titled “From Rabab to Nagara”, here on Saturday.

The exhibition, a tribute to the evolution of Sikhism from Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind Singh, features rare relics, historical artworks and LED translites, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with the rich spiritual and cultural legacy of the Gurus.

Organised by Bhai Vir Singh Sahitya Sadan in partnership with the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC), the exhibition was inaugurated with a solemn ardas ceremony attended by DSGMC president Harmeet Singh Kalra, general secretary Jagdeep Singh Kahlon and Mohinder Singh, director of Bhai Vir. The sacred prayer marked the official opening of the exhibition, which will run for nine days — November 9 to November 18 — coinciding with the Prakash Gurpurb celebrations that fall on November 15 this year.

At the entrance, visitors are greeted by live performances of the rabab and nagara, two instruments famously played by Guru Nanak to awaken the masses with his soul-stirring hymns. “Guru Nanak used these instruments as tools to rouse people from their slumber and spread his message of oneness,” explained Mohinder Singh.

The exhibition begins with stunning visuals of historic gurdwaras in Pakistan, built in memory of Guru Nanak, and continues with paintings and relics that highlight the Guru’s enduring legacy. A quote by Mohinder Singh encapsulates the spirit of the exhibition: “Again from Punjab, the call of monotheism arose, a perfect man roused India from its slumber.” The exhibition aims to awaken a similar sense of spiritual connection in today’s audience.

One of the most prized possessions on display is a rare painting of Guru Nanak’s dialogues with the yogis of Gorakhmatta, taken from Maharani Jinda’s personal prayer book, housed in the British Library. “This painting was not easy to bring here, but captures a pivotal moment in the Guru’s life,” said Singh.

Another significant feature of the exhibition is the display of the nishans of the Gurus, along with rare copies of Guru Granth Sahib, some of the first-ever handwritten by Guru Nanak. Guru Granth Sahib, originally written by Guru Nanak and preserved in Kartarpur, his dream city, is also represented. These sacred texts offer a direct link to the teachings that shaped Sikh philosophy and life.

Kalra expressed pride in this year’s exhibition, emphasising how it goes beyond the usual display of images and relics. “For years, we’ve held exhibitions to mark Guru Nanak’s Prakash Gurpurb, but this time, thanks to our partnership with Bhai Vir Sadan, we’ve brought something truly special.

It’s not just an exhibition, but an immersive experience that reconnects us with the essence of our faith. I urge everyone to come, explore and rediscover our roots,” Kalra said.

Stressing the importance of such exhibitions in the digital age, Kahlon said, “While technology makes everything accessible at our fingertips, it’s still important to experience history in person. Our youth may not know much about the history of our Gurus, and exhibitions like this, play a crucial role in keeping that legacy alive.”

Other highlights of the exhibition include photographs of young girls using pattis (slates) with Gurmukhi alphabets, symbolising the importance of education in Sikhism, and small weapons, including a shield, believed to have been used by Guru Gobind Singh during the Battle of Chamkaur.

Lastly, relics from the family of Bhai Rupa are on display, including a prayer book, small weapons and a rhino skin shield, thought to have been used by Guru Gobind Singh.

A replica of the Golden Temple is placed at the heart of the exhibition, surrounded by LED translites, showcasing key moments from the Sikh history. Additionally, a rare janamsakhi painting of the 10 Sikh Gurus, from the collection of Prof Pritam Singh of Patiala, offers a visual timeline of Sikh spiritual leadership.

Kalra said, “This exhibition allows us to reflect on the teachings of Guru Nanak and carry these forward in our lives. It is a chance for us to connect with our heritage in a way that will inspire future generations.”