Patna Sahib Illuminated for Historic 350th Martyrdom Anniversary
The sacred Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib Gurdwara has become a radiant beacon of faith and remembrance as Patna observes the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the ninth Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. Devotees from every corner of India have gathered at the gurdwara, transforming it into the nation's spiritual heart for this solemn event.
Spiritual Observances and Overwhelming Devotee Response
The core of the commemoration is the holy Akhand Path – the continuous, unbroken recitation of the entire Guru Granth Sahib. This sacred reading commenced at 10:30 am on Sunday and is scheduled to conclude on Tuesday, November 25, the precise day of the Guru's supreme sacrifice. The finale will feature hours of devotional kirtan, heartfelt ardaas (prayer), and enlightening katha (discourse).
According to Guruvinder Singh, vice-president of the Gurdwara committee, the public response has been profoundly moving. He revealed that more than 4,000 visitors have travelled from across the country specifically for this occasion. Furthermore, the daily local footfall is projected to remain around 3,000 during these days of deep spiritual reflection.
Government Support and Special Pilgrim Train
Marking the historic significance of the 350th anniversary, the celebrations received notable support from the government. The Takhat Sri Patna Sahib management committee, under the leadership of president Sardar Jagjot Singh Sohi, expressed public gratitude to Union minister of state for railways, Sardar Ravneet Singh Bittu.
Jaljeet Singh, the gurdwara superintendent, provided details of a unique facility arranged for pilgrims. "Since this is the historic 350th anniversary, the ministry of railways graciously allotted a special, free-of-cost train for pilgrims," he stated. The 22-coach special train, with a capacity for approximately 900 passengers, departed from Patna Sahib on Sunday at 6:40 am. Its destination was Takhat Sri Kesgarh Sahib in Anandpur Sahib, the very city founded by Guru Tegh Bahadur.
The train was scheduled to reach Anandpur Sahib on Monday at 4:15 am. For the return journey, it will depart from Anandpur Sahib on November 25 at 9:00 pm, terminating at Old Delhi the same day at 11:30 pm.
The Enduring Spirit of Seva and Langar
Beyond the logistical support, the focus remains firmly on the Sikh tradition of selfless service, or seva. The superintendent clarified that martyrdom anniversaries are observed with solemn reverence rather than festive celebration, but he strongly emphasized the unbroken tradition of langar – the community kitchen.
"We honour Guruji's sacrifice by ensuring continuous langar and kada prasad for every visitor who walks into the gurdwara," he affirmed. To welcome all, the entire gurdwara complex has been beautifully adorned with lights and flowers, creating a serene and uplifting atmosphere. This monumental task of hospitality is managed by a dedicated team of 20 to 30 volunteers who work from the early morning to prepare the communal meals, which include breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner for all.
