Amritsar, November 12
Muslims and Christians will take part in the rehearsal for a procession to be taken out from the Golden Temple to mark the beginning of the six-day celebrations to mark the coronation of Maharaj Ranjit Singh. Apart from Hindus and Sikhs, contingents of Christians and Muslims, who hold the balance of power in the elections, will also take part in the colourful procession tomorrow.
While Christians have a strong vote base in this border belt, Muslims dominate in Malerkotla (Sangrur).
Capt Kanwaljit Singh, Finance Minister, and in charge of the celebrations, said a jatha of 101 Sikh youths and contingents of 51 Muslims, Christians and Hindus each would participate in this spectacular show.
Apparently to present the secular credentials of his government, Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal said the procession would begin with a prayer at Akal Takht for the panth, the nation and all communities. The saffron flag of Maharaj Ranjit Singh with “Akal Sahai” would lead the procession.
The Chief Minister said an open invitation had been given to sects of Nirmala, Udasis and representatives of other institutions. The descendent of the Maharaja’s mare, Lily, will be the main attraction of the procession.
The celebrations which are being launched in Amritsar from tomorrow include a prayer at the Golden Temple, kirtan and ardas at Akal Takht followed by a procession from Sri Darbar Sahib to Ram Bagh. The statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh at Ram Bagh will be given a ceremonial salute on this occasion.
Mr George Fernandes, Union Minister, will release a commemorative coin on Maharaja Ranjit Singh on this occasion. On November 13, an exhibition on rare artifacts will be inaugurated by Mr K.C. Pant, Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission
Mr Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Union Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister, will preside. In the same evening, a “dhadi darbar” at Manji Sahib hall will be organised which will be presided over by Mr Jagdev Singh Talwandi, SGPC President.
