Ahead of the auspicious occasion of Guru Gobind Singh Ji's Parkash Parv, the city of Chandigarh came alive with devotion and colour as a significant Nagar Kirtan was organized. This religious procession, a traditional part of Sikh celebrations, saw hundreds of devotees come together to commemorate the birth anniversary of the tenth Sikh Guru.
A Procession of Faith and Tradition
The Nagar Kirtan, a hallmark of Sikh festivities, wound its way through the planned streets of Chandigarh. The air was filled with the resonant sounds of Gurbani Kirtan (hymn singing) and the rhythmic beats of the Nagara (traditional drum). Participants, embodying the spirit of Seva (selfless service), contributed to the event's organization and management, showcasing the community's core values.
Central to the procession was the Palki Sahib (palanquin) carrying the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. The scripture was adorned with flowers and placed under an ornate canopy, treated with profound reverence as it was escorted through the city. The procession created a moving tableau of faith, with devotees walking alongside, many barefoot, in a display of humility and devotion.
Martial Displays and Community Participation
Reflecting the martial spirit and legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the procession featured impressive displays of Gatka, the traditional Sikh martial art. Practitioners, young and old, demonstrated their skills with swords and sticks, symbolizing the Guru's emphasis on courage, justice, and the readiness to defend the righteous.
The event was a true community effort, with volunteers managing the route, distributing refreshments, and ensuring a smooth flow. The sight of the Nishan Sahibs (Sikh religious flags) fluttering in the wind added to the grandeur. The procession served not only as a religious observance but also as a public expression of Sikh culture, history, and identity, drawing respectful attention from onlookers of all backgrounds.
Celebrating the Birth of the Tenth Guru
The Nagar Kirtan was held in anticipation of Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti, which marks the birth of Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1666. He is revered as a spiritual master, warrior, poet, and philosopher. The Guru established the Khalsa Panth in 1699, giving Sikhs a distinct identity and a code of conduct. He also finalized the Sikh scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, as the eternal Guru.
Parkash Parv, meaning the festival of illumination, celebrates the divine light his birth brought to the world. The Nagar Kirtan in Chandigarh was a fitting prelude to the main celebrations, which will include special prayers, Akhand Path (continuous scripture reading), and Langar (community kitchen) serving free meals to all, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion.
The successful organization of the Nagar Kirtan in Chandigarh highlights the city's vibrant multicultural fabric and its respect for diverse religious traditions. It reinforced the messages of equality, service, and courage that Guru Gobind Singh Ji championed, bringing the community together in a shared spirit of piety and celebration.
