Legacy of Sher-e-Punjab Maharaja Ranjit Singh reverberates at Ram Bagh

The 186th death anniversary of Sher-e-Punjab Maharaja Ranjit Singh was observed with solemnity and devotion at the historic Summer Palace located in Ram Bagh, Amritsar. The function organised under the patronage of Sri Akal Takht Sahib and facilitated by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), saw participation from several religious and social organisations, along with prominent personalities of the city.

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The event began with the recitation of Sukhmani Sahib, followed by soulful renditions of Gurbani and Sikh historical ‘vaars’ by Dhadhi and Kavishar jathas, drawing a good congregation to the venue. It was a rare spiritual gathering at the historic site, being the first such Samagam at Ram Bagh in nearly 45 years. Last such gathering was reported in 1980, on the 200th birth anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargarj, acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, who spearheaded the initiative, emphasised the importance of preserving Sikh heritage structures, particularly in the eastern part of Punjab, in addition to the historically significant sites in Pakistan. “This is not merely a remembrance, but a call to preserve and reconnect with our glorious past,” he said while addressing the gathering.

Gargaj added that in view of the ongoing restrictions on Sikh jathas travelling to Pakistan, the decision was taken to organise the event in Amritsar, ensuring continued homage to Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

Highlighting Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s legacy, Gargaj said the Maharaja was deeply devoted to the Khalsa Panth and Sri Guru Granth Sahib. His contribution to the spiritual and secular domains included adorning Sri Harmandir Sahib with gold as well as serving Kashi Vishwanath Mandir and the Golden Mosque in Lahore. “He renamed this garden Ram Bagh in honour of Guru Ram Das after building his palace here in Amritsar,” he added.

He further expressed the desire to make this an annual tradition, with both the birth and death anniversaries of Maharaja Ranjit Singh commemorated at Ram Bagh in the future. “We must pray for a time when Punjab once again witnesses a rule like that of Sher-e-Punjab, marked by unity, peace and prosperity for all communities,” he remarked.

He also appreciated the role of office-bearers of Amritsar Vikas Manch for their initiatives.

Several eminent personalities graced the event, including SGPC officials, scholars, activists and community leaders. Among them were Sri Darbar Sahib manager Rajinder Singh Ruby, Sarbjit Singh Dhotian, historian Dr Kulwinder Singh Bajwa (Punjabi University), Kulwant Singh Anakhi (Amritsar Vikas Manch), Kuljeet Singh (Maharaja Ranjit Singh Virasat Manch) and representatives from various Sikh and social organisations.

Officials from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and caretakers of Ram Bagh, including Heera Singh, local councillor Mandeep Singh, Arvinder Singh Bhatti and educationist Principal Swaran Singh Tugalwal were also in attendance.