Parkash Purb of Guru Ramdas celebrated

A sea of devotees from across the country and abroad paid obeisance at the Golden Temple and took a dip in the Amrit Sarovar to celebrate the Parkash Purb of Guru Ramdas, founder of the holy city. Serpentine queues were seen at the holiest Sikh shrine since the wee hours of Wednesday.

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At night, fireworks mesmerised everyone. The Golden Temple was not only illuminated with colourful lights but also adorned with over 10 tonnes of 35 varieties of ornamental flowers brought from across the country and abroad.

The Jalaus, showcasing historic, religious and rare arte-facts, were put on display in the sanctum sanctorum of the Golden Temple, Akal Takht and Gurdwara Baba Atal Rai. Langars were also set up to mark the birth anniversary of the founder of the holy city.

The holy Sikh shrine was beautifully decorated. The resplendence of the Golden Temple was enhanced at night, with lights illuminating the entire complex. Beautiful decorations at Sachkhand Sri Harmandir Sahib, Sri Akal Takht Sahib and Gurdwara Baba Atal Rai Sahib remained the centre of attraction for devotees.

On the occasion, Akal Takht officiating Jathedar Kuldip Singh, Head Granthi of Sachkhand Harmandar Sahib, Giani Raghbir Singh, and SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami congratulated the sangat on the occasion of ‘Avtar Purb’ of Guru Ramdas.

The SGPC organised the Bhog of Sri Akhand Path Sahib at Gurdwara Sri Manji Sahib Diwan Hall, after which famous Raagi, Dhadi and Kavishar jathas rendered the Gurbani kirtan and connected the devotees with history.

Dhami said the life of Guru Ramdas serves as a guide for all of humanity. He urged the sangat to follow his teachings. Famous Kathavachak Bhai Pinderpal Singh enlightened the sangat about the life history of Sri Guru Ramdas.

In the Kavi Darbar, poets shared the life history of the fourth Guru and his contribution with the congregation through poems.