In a first, Guru Granth Sahib Parkash Utsav inside South Australian parliament

Adelaide, November 18

For the first time in the history of South Australia, the fourth-largest Australian state, Guru Granth Sahib’s Parkash Utsav took place inside parliament. The 522nd birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev is being celebrated in different parts of the world.

Also read: Satguru Nanak Pargateya: Spiritual journey of Gurdwaras in Sultanpur Lodhi

Proud moment

This year is indeed special as we have the holy scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, here in South Australian parliament. It is indeed a proud moment for us. -- Russell Wortley, Australian Labor Party

Russell Wortley, Member of the Legislative Council and Australian Labor Party hosted the event. Addressing the gathering that comprised distinguished members of the Indian community as well as South Australian politicians, Wortley said: “I have attended many of gurdwara prayer services, festivals, programmes and even weddings. I feel I have some connection with the Sikhs — the brave, the warriors, the saviours!”

“The teachings of Guru Nanak of ‘say your prayers and share your meals’ has impressed me a lot. I see you all cooking and sharing meals at the gurdwaras, carrying the message in your heart. How good is it that you provided meals at the time of crisis to people in need in the recent bushfires in Australia,” said Wortley.

He joined in the prayers along with his wife and Member of Parliament, Dana Wortley. Also present on the occasion were Dan Cregan, Speaker, South Australian House of Assembly; Steve Georganas, Federal Member for Adelaide and Peter Malinauskas, Leader of Opposition and Member of the Australian Labor Party.

The Panj Pyare (five beloved ones) escorting Guru Granth Sahib from outside parliament, from the historic steps to the indoor hall was a unique sight with many parliamentarians and members of the public watching the unique ceremony.

This first-ever Parkash Utsav ceremony was followed by kirtan and prayers with the aim to spread Guru Nanak’s message. — TNS

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