STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: The 556th Parkash Purab (birth anniversary) of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj was celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm at Gurudwara Yaadgar Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Chand Nagar, Jammu, under the auspices of the District Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (DGPC), Jammu. A large number of Sangat (devotees) gathered to participate in the sacred Samagam, creating an atmosphere of spirituality, peace, and brotherhood.
The event was blessed by the presence of the Ragi Jatha from Sri Darbar Sahib, Amritsar, who recited melodious Gurbani Kirtan. Hajoori Ragi Bhai Gurbej Singh and Bhai Balwinder Singh inspired the congregation with their soulful renditions. Kathawachak Bhai Surinder Singh Panjokhra Sahib Wale also delivered enlightening Katha on the teachings and divine message of Guru Nanak Dev.
Several other renowned Ragi Jathas and Parcharak also graced the occasion, spreading the message of peace, oneness, and humility as preached by Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj.
The Samagam witnessed participation from many distinguished personalities, including administrative officials and political leaders. Among those present were DIG Shiv Kumar, Congress Party President Tariq Hamid Karra, MLA Vikram Randhawa, and Shri Raman Bhalla Ji.
Special messages were received from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who could not attend the event personally due to the tragic demise of the mother of Shami Oberoi, Member Rajya Sabha.
Messages of greetings and best wishes for the Sangat were also shared by Mehbooba Mufti, and BJP President Sat Sharma, which were conveyed through MLA Vikram Randhawa and Charanjit Singh Khalsa.
Several social and religious organizations set up stalls at the venue, distributing religious literature, medicines, and other assistance to the Sangat. The celebration reflected a strong spirit of Sarbat Da Bhala (welfare of all) and communal harmony.
Addressing the gathering, S. Ranjeet Singh Tohra, President of DGPC Jammu, extended heartfelt gratitude to all the devotees for their participation. He appealed to the Sangat to uphold the values of communal harmony, peace, and brotherhood, as taught by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He also encouraged the youth to remain united and work towards Panthic Ekta (unity of the Sikh community).
The program was also graced by Balwinder Singh (Vice President, DGPC Jammu), Surjeet Singh (Secretary), Ranvir Singh (Joint Secretary), Jagpal Singh (Treasurer), Avtar Singh, Harjeet Singh, Gurmeet Singh, and Karan Singh Bali, along with senior members of the DGPC Jammu and other prominent Panthic personalities.
The celebration concluded with Ardas and distribution of GurKa langar, spreading the message of equality and universal brotherhood – the eternal teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.