The city of Lucknow came alive with devotion and colour on Sunday as a grand Nagar Kirtan (religious procession) wound its way through its streets. The event was organised to commemorate the 360th birth anniversary (Prakash Parv) of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh. The procession was initiated by the Alambagh Gurdwara, drawing hundreds of devotees and onlookers into a celebration of faith and community.
A Procession Steeped in Devotion and Discipline
The Nagar Kirtan commenced its journey from the Ashiana Gurdwara. It then proceeded to the Nanak Pyau Gurdwara before moving from the Mansarovar Gurdwara through Krishnanagar and finally returning to its starting point at Alambagh. The route was lined with devotees seeking blessings and participating in the solemn yet joyous occasion.
Adding a dynamic and disciplined fervour to the event, students from Dashmesh Public School, Awadh Collegiate, and Khalsa School showcased impressive martial arts performances. Their demonstrations of Gatka, a traditional Sikh martial art, resonated with the warrior spirit of Guru Gobind Singh. The air was also filled with the sound of devotional hymns (Shabads and Kirtan) sung by the students and priests, creating an atmosphere of spiritual elevation.
Community Service and Spiritual Teachings
True to the Sikh principle of 'Langar' and community service, stalls offering various food items were set up at multiple points along the procession route. These stalls served free meals (Prasad) to all devotees and members of the public, irrespective of their background, reflecting the Guru's teaching of equality.
The Mansarovar Gurdwara on Kanpur road was specially adorned with flowers, LED lights, and decorative curtains for the occasion. Sampuran Singh Bagga, President of the gurdwara, emphasised the relevance of the Guru's message today. He stated that the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh on justice, selfless service to humanity, and the fundamental equality of all people must be widely spread to combat discrimination.
Devotees shared their personal connections to the event. Sanjyot Singh, a student, expressed his aspiration inspired by the Guru: "I want to become a soldier and serve my nation, which was taught by my guru Gobind Singh." Another devotee, Amandeep, brought her 10-year-old son to imbibe the Guru's teachings, while Sanjana Kaur came to pray for success in her examinations.
Commemorating Martyrdom and Preserving Heritage
In a parallel observance marked by solemnity, the 350th martyrdom day of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, was devoutly observed at the Aashiana Gurdwara. The gathering was attended by Sarojininagar MLA Rajeshwar Singh and RSS Awadh province pracharak Kaushal.
Addressing the assembly, MLA Rajeshwar Singh honoured Guru Tegh Bahadur as a fearless warrior and a timeless symbol of courage, sacrifice, and humanity. He reflected on the historical context of the Guru's martyrdom during the oppressive reign of Mughal ruler Aurangzeb, highlighting that Guru Tegh Bahadur sacrificed his life to uphold the freedom of conscience and religion for all.
Looking to the future, Singh announced significant plans to establish a ‘Virasat-e-Khalsa’ museum in Sarojininagar. This initiative aims to meticulously preserve the rich history and values of Sikhism, ensuring that the legacy of courage and sacrifice continues to inspire future generations.
The day in Lucknow thus beautifully balanced joyous celebration with solemn remembrance, showcasing the living traditions and enduring teachings of the Sikh Gurus. It served as a powerful reminder of the principles of justice, equality, and supreme sacrifice that remain central to the faith.
