Chandigarh/Sri Anandpur Sahib, November 22, 2025 – As the 350th martyrdom day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji approaches, devotees from across the country converged on the sacred city of Sri Anandpur Sahib, where Nagar Kirtans from four directions have completed their journey. The Punjab government has finalized arrangements to welcome the pilgrims, ensure their security, and facilitate participation in multiple religious and cultural events from November 23 to 25.
Education and Information & Public Relations Minister Harjot Singh Bains said that the Nagar Kirtans, originating from Srinagar, Gurdaspur, Faridkot, and Talwandi Sabo, covered a combined distance of 1,563 kilometers. “The decorated Nagar Kirtans will reach Sri Anandpur Sahib today and will be accorded a grand welcome by the devotees,” Bains noted.
Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond highlighted the state government’s efforts under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann to ensure convenience and safety for the large influx of devotees. “All preparations in the holy city have been completed to allow devotees to participate in the congregations and to bow at Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib comfortably,” Sond said.
In the run-up to the celebrations, light and sound shows illustrating the life and philosophy of Guru Sahib were held across all 23 districts of Punjab. Kirtan Darbars were also organized at Baba Bakala, Amritsar, and Patiala.
Sharing the schedule of congregations, Bains said that on November 23, Sri Akhand Path Sahib will begin at the Gurdwara Sahib near Baba Budha Dal Camp, with the Chief Minister and other dignitaries in attendance. “The Chief Minister will also inaugurate an exhibition at the Virasat-e-Khalsa memorial showcasing the life and teachings of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. A Sarbat Dharam Conference at the main pandal will bring together prominent religious leaders,” he added.
On November 24, a Sees Bhent Nagar Kirtan will proceed from Kiratpur Sahib to Bhai Jeeta Ji’s memorial. A Heritage Walk will cover key historical sites including Gurdwara Bhora Sahib, Gurdwara Sees Ganj Sahib, Guru Tegh Bahadur Museum, Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib, Qila Anandgarh Sahib, and Virasat-e-Khalsa. Cultural events at Charan Ganga Stadium, including Gatka, tent pegging, sword and shield competitions, and Simran congregations, are also planned. Daily drone shows will run from November 23 to 29 at the Virasat-e-Khalsa memorial.
The concluding day, November 25, will feature a Sarbat Da Bhala congregation following the completion of Sri Akhand Path Sahib Ji. Punjab Police and the district administration have deployed over 8,000 personnel to manage security, traffic, and devotee movement. Extensive shuttle services, e-rickshaws, mini buses, cars, and golf carts will facilitate travel between parking areas, main pandals, and heritage sites.
To accommodate devotees, two major tent cities, Chakk Nanaki Niwas and Bhai Mati Das Niwas, have been set up, providing lodging for roughly 10,000 pilgrims. Medical services, ambulances, CCTV surveillance, lighting, barricades, and signage have been arranged to ensure a safe and smooth experience for all attendees.
