The city of Patna is immersed in profound devotion as it commemorates the 359th Prakash Parv of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The primary celebrations are centered at the revered Takht Shri Harmandir Ji Patna Sahib Gurdwara, drawing thousands of devotees from across the nation.
A Day of Spiritual Processions and Community Feasts
The festive atmosphere was palpable on Friday with the resonant sounds of Nagar Kirtans filling the air, creating a serene and joyous milieu. The day's events paid homage to the immense sacrifices of the Guru and the martyrdom of his four sons, the Sahibzadas. A cornerstone of the observance was the grand community kitchen, or langar, which was open to all, embodying the Sikh principles of equality and service.
The celebrations commenced with the conclusion of the Akhand Path, a continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib. This was followed by special religious assemblies, known as Diwans. A highlight was a magnificent procession inaugurated with the release of balloons into the sky. This procession, led by the Panj Pyaras, featured Shabdi Jathas, school bands, and dynamic Gatka performance groups. It wound through the streets of Patna before concluding at the Takht Shri Harmandir Ji.
The air echoed with the powerful chants of "Jo bole so nihal, sat sri akal" and soulful kirtans. Prominent religious leaders, including Jathedar Giani Baldev Singh Ji and Takht committee president Jagjot Singh Sohi, led the proceedings, ensuring the Guru's message reached the multitude of devotees lining the route.
Governor to Inaugurate Affordable Medical Centre
On Saturday, the main day of the celebrations, Governor Arif Mohammed Khan is scheduled to lay the foundation stone for a significant healthcare initiative. The Char Sahibzade MRI and CT Scan Centre will be established at the Matri Shishu Seva Kalyan Kendra near Mangal Talab. This project, undertaken by the Patna Sahib Gurdwara Committee, aims to provide highly subsidized diagnostic services to the public.
As per the initiative, people can avail an MRI scan for just Rs 1,800, a CT scan for Rs 1,000, and an X-ray for merely Rs 100. This effort aligns with the Sikh tradition of selfless service to humanity. Special Diwans will be held from early morning till late night on Saturday to mark the Guru's birth anniversary.
Municipal Corporation Ensures Impeccable Cleanliness
In anticipation of the massive influx of pilgrims, the Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) has undertaken extensive measures to maintain cleanliness and sanitation in the area. A PMC official stated that the staff strength has been significantly increased due to the scale of the celebrations and the number of visitors.
A total of 163 additional cleaning staff have been deployed and will remain on duty until December 28. To ensure proper sanitation, the corporation will utilize 5,000 kg of lime and 1,500 kg of bleaching powder. These efforts are focused on providing a clean and hygienic environment for all attendees joining the Prakash Parv celebrations.
