THE 350th Shatabdi Sahidi Diwas of Guru Tegh Bahadur was observed on Tuesday with deep faith and spirit. The main ceremony was organised at Gurudwara Premnagar ground where a large number of devotees paid tribute to the ninth Sikh Guru, remembered his sacrifice to defend faith, freedom and human rights. Ragi Jatha Bhai Sahjdeep Singh from Delhi presented shabad kirtan and called upon the message of courage and compassion through hymns celebrating the Guru’s legacy.

 

Scholar and Gurbani commentator Giani Sarabjit Singh Dhunda from Punjab recalled poet Sen’s verse and said Guru Tegh Bahadur’s supreme sacrifice challenged centuries of tyranny and inspired India’s fight for freedom. He said the Guru’s stand was against injustice, not against any community. Performances by young Ragi Jatha of Akal Academy Baru Sahib brought alive scenes of valour through ballads and war narratives. Langar was served throughout the day. A poetry collection ‘Manavta ke Rakshak Guru Tegh Bahadur’ by Dr Lakhbinder Kaur was also released.

 

Mayor Jagat Bahadur Singh, former minister Harendrajit Singh Babbu, Ajit Singh Nayyar and other public representatives and volunteers were honoured with shawls and siropa. The Sikh Nari Manch organised a blood donation camp and Dr Amarjit Kaur Taggar offered Sujok therapy to visitors. Likewise, various Gurdwaras in the city also held satsang where devotees recited the 57 hymns of the ninth Mahla. Prabhat pheris were also taken out and the collective sehaj path of 350 readings of Guru Granth Sahib concluded.

 

Gurdwaras at Gorakhpur and Bhartipur hoisted the Basanti Nishan Sahib after kar sewa. The observance ended late at night with the ardas for universal well being, the hukamnama and distribution of kada prasad.