SGPC Honors Seventh Sikh Guru's Legacy with Environmental Initiative
The Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) celebrated the Gurtagaddi Diwas of the seventh Sikh Guru, Sri Har Rai Sahib, on Tuesday, marking the occasion as Environment Day through a significant tree-planting ceremony. This annual event underscores the Guru's historical emphasis on environmental stewardship and encourages the Sikh community to engage in conservation efforts.
Ceremonial Observances at Golden Temple Complex
At Guru Ke Bagh, situated between Gurdwara Sri Manji Sahib Diwan Hall and Langar Sri Guru Ramdas Ji, key figures led the environmental tribute. Giani Baljit Singh, the Granthi of Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib, and Bhagwant Singh Dhangera, the General Manager of the Golden Temple, planted saplings to honor Guru Har Rai Sahib. The ceremony was part of a broader spiritual gathering that included the Bhog of Akhand Path at the Diwan Hall of Gurdwara Sri Manji Sahib.
During the event, the Hazuri Raagi Jatha of Bhai Balwinder Singh performed Gurbani Kirtan, enriching the atmosphere with devotional hymns. Ardas was conducted by Bhai Baljit Singh, and the Hukamnama was recited to the congregation by Giani Baljit Singh, who also narrated the life history of Guru Har Rai Sahib. He highlighted the Guru's legacy of environmental conservation, noting that Guru Har Rai planted a garden at Sri Kiratpur Sahib, setting a precedent for ecological mindfulness.
Promoting Environmental Awareness Among Sikh Sangat
The SGPC's initiative to celebrate Guru Har Rai's Gurtagaddi Diwas as Environment Day aims to inspire the Sikh sangat to plant as many trees as possible. Giani Baljit Singh congratulated the congregation on this auspicious day and urged continued participation in tree-planting activities. This effort aligns with the Guru's teachings, fostering a culture of sustainability and respect for nature within the community.
By integrating spiritual observance with environmental action, the SGPC reinforces the message that conservation is a vital aspect of Sikh values. The event serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of Guru Har Rai's contributions to both faith and ecology.
