 |
|
The Prakash Utsav, a three-day celebration commemorating the 358th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth and last Sikh Guru, unfolded in Patna, India with immense fervor and participation. The second day of the festival, Sunday, witnessed a spectacular Nagar Kirtan, a religious procession, attracting over 10,000 devotees. This impressive turnout underscored the profound reverence and devotion felt for the revered Guru within the Sikh community and beyond. The procession, a vibrant tapestry of faith and cultural expression, moved through the heart of Patna, leaving an indelible mark on the city's landscape.
The Nagar Kirtan's journey began at the Gai Ghat Gurdwara at 1 pm and concluded at the Takhat Shri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib Gurdwara at 7:30 pm, covering a distance of 1.5 kilometers. The procession was a visual spectacle, a symphony of sights and sounds. It was led by the Panj Pyare, the five beloved ones, dressed in their traditional attire, followed by a Palki Sahib carrying the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture, in a beautifully decorated vehicle. Nishaan Sahibs, the Sikh flags, fluttered proudly amidst the throng of devotees. The air vibrated with the rhythm of devotional hymns, Shabad Kirtan Gurbani recitations accompanied by drums, and the enthusiastic chants of the participants.
A major highlight of the procession was the exhilarating display of Gatka, a traditional Sikh martial art involving sword fighting. The skilled practitioners demonstrated their prowess, captivating the onlookers with their precise movements and controlled power. Displays with blunt weapons and kirpans, Ranjit Nagara (war drums), and school bands added further dynamism to the procession. The presence of horses, camels, and elephants, adding a touch of grandeur and spectacle, further enhanced the event's visual appeal. The sheer scale and vibrancy of the procession showcased the deep-rooted faith and cultural richness of the Sikh community.
The organizers made meticulous arrangements to ensure the comfort and well-being of the devotees. Stalls were set up along the procession route, offering refreshments such as snacks, juice, and water. Mahendra Pal Singh Dhillon, a member of the Takhat Sri Harmandir Ji Prabandhak Committee, confirmed that over 10,000 devotees participated in the event, emphasizing the inclusion of approximately 50 horses, four camels, and three elephants. He also highlighted the significant participation of devotees from across the globe, with an estimated 5,000 attendees from international locations, underscoring the global reach of this significant religious event.
The logistical arrangements extended beyond the procession itself. The committee, in collaboration with the district administration and the state government, provided extensive support for the accommodation of these numerous visitors. Arrangements were made for their comfortable stay in a designated tent city and various other accommodations, including the Punjab Bhavan and Kangang Ghat. To further cater to the participants, elaborate provisions for langar, the community kitchen serving free meals, were made at several locations including the Patna Sahib Gurdwara, Kangan Ghat, Bal Leela Gurdwara, Gai Ghat Gurdwara, and community halls. This selfless act of service provided nourishment to over 2 lakh devotees throughout the event.
The festivities continued into the next day with the main function scheduled at the Patna Sahib Gurdwara, commencing at 9 am. This main event included katha (story-telling) sessions and kirtan (devotional singing) performances, attracting VIP guests in the afternoon. The participation of international visitors like Inderjeet Singh from Calgary, Canada; Harbhanj Singh Sidhu and his family from Canada; Malkit Singh from New York; Amrit Pal Singh and Gurucharan Singh from Australia; and Durjeet Kaur from Edmond underscored the global significance of the Prakash Utsav and the deeply held reverence for Guru Gobind Singh Ji among Sikh communities worldwide. The event stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Guru and the strong bonds within the Sikh community.
The Prakash Utsav in Patna showcased not only a deeply spiritual event but also a remarkable example of community organization and hospitality. The seamless coordination between the religious organization, local authorities, and the government ensured a smooth and successful event. The sheer scale of the celebration and the dedication of the participants underscore the powerful spiritual significance of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the enduring strength and unity of the Sikh community. The Nagar Kirtan served as a vibrant demonstration of Sikh faith, tradition, and cultural pride, leaving a lasting impact on all who participated and witnessed it.
Beyond the religious significance, the Prakash Utsav acted as a bridge connecting Sikhs from around the world. The shared experience of devotion, the joyous celebration, and the collective participation fostered a powerful sense of community and belonging. The event serves as a powerful reminder of the unifying force of faith and the importance of cultural preservation. The successful organization of such a large-scale event showcased the exceptional organizational capabilities and resourcefulness of the Sikh community in Patna, reinforcing the community's commitment to faith and tradition.
The economic impact of the Prakash Utsav should also be considered. The influx of thousands of devotees from within India and abroad contributed to the local economy through increased spending on accommodations, transportation, food, and other services. This influx of visitors bolstered local businesses and provided economic stimulus to the region, demonstrating the positive socio-economic implications of significant religious events. The Prakash Utsav, therefore, not only had a profound spiritual impact but also played a valuable role in the local community's economic development.
Source: Prakash Utsav: Over 10,000 devotees take part in ‘Nagar Kirtan’