Anandpur Sahib, July 31: The Punjab government will organise four major religious yatras and a series of commemorative events to mark the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Teg Bahadur, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains announced.
Speaking at the first planning meeting held at Virasat-e-Khalsa, Anandpur Sahib, Bains said the four-day yatras will begin on November 19 and converge at Anandpur Sahib from across the state, including one that will start from Srinagar.
“The yatras will pass through nearly all districts and major cities of Punjab, including Gurdaspur, Majha, Doaba, Malwa, Bathinda and Faridkot,” Bains said.
The religious processions will feature Mashal-e-Shahadat, an exhibition library on the life and teachings of the ninth Sikh Guru, as well as Gatka demonstrations, Panj Pyaras, Panj Nishanchi, Kirtani Jathas, and delegates from Kashmir, including Kashmiri Pandits. A large number of Sangat is also expected to take part.
Bains, accompanied by cabinet colleagues Harbhajan Singh ETO and Tarunpreet Singh Sond, shared that the events are being planned at a large scale to honor the supreme sacrifice of Guru Teg Bahadur, who gave his life defending religious freedom.
On November 23, an Akhand Path will commence at Virasat-e-Khalsa, with participation from religious leaders and dignitaries from across India and abroad. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann will also be present.
The same day, the Chief Minister will inaugurate a digital exhibition portraying the life and martyrdom of Guru Teg Bahadur at Virasat-e-Khalsa.
“These yatras and events aim to spread the message of Guru Sahib’s unparalleled courage and sacrifice, and ensure the younger generation connects with this legacy,” Bains said.
