Amid cold wave, devotees throng gurdwaras to celebrate Gurpurb

Amid the ongoing cold wave, thousands of devotees thronged gurdwaras across the city to celebrate the Parkash Purb of Guru Gobind Singh on Monday.

Devotees came bearing offerings of sweets, fruits, bouquets, and flowers as they paid obeisance and listened to holy hymns. Hazuri Ragi Jathas from the Golden Temple performed shabads at Gurdwara Singh Sabha in Model Town, which saw an estimated 25,000 visitors, according to gurdwara president Mohinderjit Singh. Women’s Satsang Sabha and students from Guru Amardas Public School also captivated the congregation with their kirtan performances.

Katha vachaks (preachers) shared insights into the life and teachings of Guru Gobind Singh, inspiring the sangat. To ensure the comfort of the devotees, gurdwara managements installed heaters, laid carpets along pathways, and provided chairs for the elderly and differently abled outside the main hall.

The celebration included a sumptuous langar serving dal, gobhi aaloo, kheer, and rumali roti. Stalls offering hot, elaichi-flavored milk and crispy jalebis added to the festive spirit.

Politicians from various parties, including ex-MP Sushil Rinku, ex-MLA Sarabjeet Makkar, SGPC member and AAP leader Paramjit Singh Raipur, and SAD leader Harjaap Singh Sangha, also joined the celebrations, marking the occasion with reverence.