Guru Nanak Dev Bhawan lying in a state of neglect

Mahesh Sharma

Mandi Ahmedgarh, July 22

Residents of the region have urged Punjab Government and NRIs from the state to undertake renovation of the only Guru Nanak Bhawan that was constructed in state on occasion of the 500th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev by the Union Government 50 years ago.

The memorial established at Government College, Karamsar, in Payal Subdivision near here consists of six lecture rooms, a kitchen, bathrooms and verandah, besides a seminar hall. Residents led by Principal Jaswant Singh regretted that successive governments had failed to upkeep and renovate the premises of the Guru Nanak Bhawan after its construction was completed about 45 years ago. “The college needs a minimum amount of Rs 25 lakh for repairing floors, windowpanes and doors besides beautification of the premises,” reads a communiqué sent by the college to the government through Director, (Colleges) Education Department.

Investigations revealed that the Union Government in 1969 had announced to establish eight Guru Nanak Bhawans in Punjab, Uttar Pardesh, Gujrat, Rajasthan, Madras, Orissa and Maharashtra on the occasion of 500th birth anniversary of the first Guru of Sikhs. The gesture was aimed at inculcating the spirit of self help and reliance and provide opportunities by organising several activities at these bhawans. Sports and cultural activities were also on the agenda to bring about a harmonious growth.

The state known for followings and perpetuating teachings of Sikh Gurus, including Guru Nanak Dev Ji has lagged behind in construction of the only bhawan allocated in 1969 and the residents had to send reminders to the government for getting land acquired for the purpose then. The institute that was established by the founder of Gurudwara Rara Sahib Sant Isher Singh was also handed over to the government on the occasion of 500th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in 1969.

Management of the historical Sikh religious place and followers of the sect, including NRIs and industrialists have been helping the management of the college in providing facilities to poor students coming from rural localities all these years.

The organisation envisaged to support government’s mission ‘Beti Parhao Beti Bachao’ and DAPO to eradicate devil of drug addiction. Now when the state is celebrating 550th birth anniversary, residents including parents of students that the only Guru Nanak Bhawan, constructed by then Union Government under the scheme be upgraded and renovated according to present day needs of students and aspirants.