Punjab Government Unveils Massive Commemoration Plans
The Punjab government has announced an elaborate state-wide program to honor the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, featuring educational initiatives, cultural events, and spiritual gatherings. The comprehensive schedule was revealed during a press conference at Punjab Bhawan by Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains and Deepak Bali, advisor to the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department.
Educational Initiatives for Younger Generation
In a significant move to educate the youth about the Ninth Guru's legacy, the government has mandated a 15-day educational module for all schools from nursery to Class XII. Starting November 10, morning assemblies will feature a 10 to 12-minute pre-recorded audio presentation detailing Guru Tegh Bahadur's life, martyrdom, and the creation of the Khalsa Panth.
Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains emphasized that "the sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur was for the dignity of all human beings" and expressed the government's commitment to ensuring every child understands this crucial historical significance. Higher education institutions including universities, colleges, ITIs, and polytechnics have been directed to organize seminars and related events.
State-Wide Events and Processions
The commemorative events will commence on November 4 across Punjab with a 45-minute light and sound show about the Guru's life. The inaugural shows will be staged in Patiala, Jalandhar, Fatehgarh Sahib, and Pathankot before expanding to all districts.
Four major Nagar Kirtans (religious processions) will converge toward Sri Anandpur Sahib. The first procession begins from Srinagar on November 19 with expected participation from Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Umar Abdullah, along with various Punjab ministers and MLAs. Additional processions will originate from Faridkot, Bathinda, and Gurdaspur, all scheduled to reach Sri Anandpur Sahib on the evening of November 22.
Grand Finale at Anandpur Sahib
The concluding ceremonies from November 23 to 25 at Sri Anandpur Sahib promise to be spectacular. The events include:
- Akhand Path Sahib beginning November 23
- Interfaith Sarb Dharam Sammelan with spiritual leaders from multiple faiths
- 500-drone show at Virasat-e-Khalsa - described as North India's first such display
- Kirtan Darbar at 6 PM
- "Shahaadat di Lo" ceremony with the city illuminated by mashals
November 24 will feature the Nagar Kirtan 'Sis Bhet' starting from Sri Kiratpur Sahib and a historic special session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha at Bhai Jaita Memorial. The final day on November 25 will include the Bhog of Akhand Path Sahib and recitals by renowned jathas.
Mass Arrangements for Devotees
Anticipating approximately one crore visitors, the state is establishing three tent cities capable of hosting over 11,000 people daily from November 19 to 30. The infrastructure includes 106 acres of parking space around Sri Anandpur Sahib.
To facilitate pilgrimage, the government is providing free bus services from every tehsil in Punjab to Sri Anandpur Sahib from November 23 to 25. Local transportation within Anandpur Sahib will be supported by 500 free e-rickshaws and 100 mini-buses.
Minister Bains extended a heartfelt invitation to the public: "On behalf of the Punjab government, I invite the Sangat to unite to pay homage to Guru Tegh Bahadur's life and legacy, which stand as a beacon of hope for humanity."
