The air in Dibrugarh thickened with devotion and reverence as the Gurudwara Singh Sabha became the epicenter of magnificent celebrations honoring the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. The sacred premises resonated with the melodic chanting of Gurbani and hymns, creating an atmosphere of profound spirituality that captivated every attendee.
A Spectacle of Faith and Unity
Days before the main event, the Gurudwara underwent a stunning transformation. The complex was meticulously cleaned and adorned with vibrant flowers, colorful banners, and shimmering lights. The main prayer hall, particularly the sanctum sanctorum where the Guru Granth Sahib is placed, was decorated with exquisite precision, setting the stage for the grand festivities.
Nagar Kirtan: A Procession of Divine Melodies
The highlight of the celebrations was the magnificent Nagar Kirtan—a grand religious procession that wound its way through the heart of Dibrugarh. The streets came alive as devotees, young and old, marched alongside the beautifully decorated palanquin carrying the Guru Granth Sahib.
The procession featured:
- Panj Pyaras (Five Beloved Ones) leading the march in traditional attire
- Gatka teams demonstrating ancient martial arts with impressive skill
- Devotees singing devotional hymns with unmatched enthusiasm
- Colorful banners and religious symbols creating a visual spectacle
Langar: The Heart of Sikh Hospitality
True to the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the Gurudwara organized a massive Langar (community kitchen) that served free meals to thousands of devotees throughout the celebrations. Volunteers worked tirelessly around the clock to prepare and serve nutritious vegetarian meals, embodying the core Sikh principles of equality, service, and community.
"The Langar service is our way of practicing Guru Nanak's teaching that no one should sleep hungry. We've been preparing for this for weeks," shared one of the senior volunteers, his face glowing with spiritual satisfaction.
Spiritual Discourses and Youth Participation
Elder members of the Sikh community delivered enlightening lectures and Katha (religious discourses) focusing on Guru Nanak Dev Ji's life, teachings, and philosophy. Particularly inspiring was the overwhelming participation of young devotees, who actively involved themselves in all aspects of the celebrations—from organizing the Nagar Kirtan to serving in the Langar.
A Message of Universal Brotherhood
The celebrations transcended religious boundaries, with people from various faiths joining the festivities. This harmonious gathering perfectly reflected Guru Nanak Dev Ji's eternal message of 'Ik Onkar'—the belief in one God and the universal brotherhood of all humanity.
The 556th Prakash Purab in Dibrugarh not only strengthened the spiritual bonds within the Sikh community but also served as a beautiful reminder of the timeless values of compassion, equality, and selfless service that Guru Nanak Dev Ji championed throughout his life.
