– Offers prayers at Gurdwara Sri Dukh Niwaran Sahib, Patiala
– Punjab Government to mark 350th martyrdom centenary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib and 450th foundation centenary of Sri Amritsar Sahib with devotion and grandeur, says Sandhwan
– Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib’s message of sacrifice and justice will be taken to every corner of the world
Patiala, June 1:
Speaker of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Kultar Singh Sandhwan, today offered prayers at Gurdwara Sri Dukh Niwaran Sahib in Patiala and formally launched a campaign to seek suggestions from the Sangat and devotees for the upcoming centenary celebrations of key Sikh milestones.
Speaking on the occasion, he announced that the Punjab Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann would celebrate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib and the 450th founding anniversary of Sri Amritsar Sahib with utmost devotion, respect, and love.
Sandhwan emphasized that the martyrdom of the ninth Guru was a defining moment in world history—an unparalleled sacrifice made to uphold the right to religious freedom and justice. “Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib gave his life not for his own faith, but to defend the beliefs of others. His supreme sacrifice must be remembered and honored globally,” he said.
He added that these centenaries offer an opportunity not just for remembrance, but for spreading Guru Sahib’s universal message of justice, sacrifice, and humanity. “We have begun this campaign with Ardas at the sacred feet of Guru Sahib, seeking his blessings so these centenaries can be celebrated with purity of spirit, away from political motives, and in a truly grand and inclusive manner,” he said.
He also reflected on the profound message of Sikh history, stating, “While the first Guru, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, refused to wear the sacred thread (Janjhu), the ninth Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, sacrificed his life to protect the same thread and Tilak—not as a ritual, but as a symbol of justice and religious freedom.”
During a meeting held at the gurdwara, prominent Sikh scholar Prof. Paramveer Singh from Punjabi University presented three of his books to the Speaker and shared his valuable suggestions. Dr. Harjit Singh, Assistant Professor at Gurmat College, along with other members of the Sangat, also offered their insights.
MLA Gurlal Ghanaur and Biba Narinder Kaur Bharaj were present on the occasion.
