The birth of Guru Nanak Dev ji, the first Guru in the Sikh religion, was celebrated with love, devotion and enthusiasm in our sector last month. The celebration to mark the day begins many days ahead of the birth date, which is Kartik Purnima that was on 27 November, this year.
The celebration started with Prabhat Pheri, which was taken out in different sectors on different days. In Sector-92, the Prabhat Pheri was invited on 12 November early morning, at 5am. The residents of all nearby sectors gathered at the main gate of Sector 92 and together, with Prabhat Pheri, proceeded towards the Community Centre. There were showers of rose petals and the Nishan Sahib was honoured with rose and marigold garlands.
On this occasion, the Community Centre was filled with the fragrance of roses; the entire area was lighted with Diya(s) and floral rangoli. Mesmerising Shabads were sung in deep devotion and love, by the sangat which was heavenly and heart touching, and created an aura of pure bliss.
The three simple teachings of Guru Sahib:
Vand Chako: Sharing with others
Kirat Karo: Making an honest living
Naam Japna: Remembering God at all times are so relevant in the present times; the true bases for human race to survive in this period of unrest.
The enchanting Shabads were followed by divine langar of samosa, sandwiches, sweets, savory and kesar milk.
Nagar Kirtan
In continuation with the celebration of Gurupurab, a Nagar kirtan took place. Nagar ‘town or neighbourhood’ and ‘Kirtan’ is a term describing the singing of Shabads (divine hymns). The term refers to the procession of Sikh. Sangat (congregation) through the town singing holy Shabads was held on 26 November, which started from Gurudwara Sahib in Sector 136 in the morning and travelled around 13 housing apartments and sectors. The congregation reached Sector 92 around afternoon.
The preparations to welcome the gathering were done in advance outside every housing apartments and sectors. The roads were thoroughly cleaned and spread with flowers so that Guru Granth Sahib, the Living Guru of Sikhs, is brought in floral chariot for Sangat to seek the blessings.
The Sangat participated in large numbers; all age group was present with dedication and faith. A group was performing Gatka, which is a traditional form of martial art. It involves the use of various weapons – including swords, spears, shields and sticks – and is practiced as a means of physical, mental and spiritual training. They displayed their skills in a group which was applauded by all. The spectators were awestruck with their display of control over the weapons they used.
Small kids from age of 2 yrs to 12 years were dressed as Pyaras were a part of the congregation; their dedication and love for Guru was immense. They were present the whole day travelling such a long distance of walking.
A large number of stalls were put up along the route of the Nagar Kirtan – rice channa, chowmein manchurian, jalebi, bread pakora, dal with nann, ice cream, fruits, allu-poori and much more were relished by all. Kids were distributed stationery sets, chocolates and candies in large amount.
A number of blankets and woollens were distributed among the needy for the winter’s approaching.
The teachings of Guru Nanak Dev ji were recited and shared. He gave the theory of ‘One God’. All human beings can have direct access to God without any rituals. Guru Nanak’s most important teaching was that he condemned the caste system and vehemently spoke against it. He believed that everyone was equal irrespective of religion, gender and caste. The faith and love one has for our Guru could be felt in every devotee. A feeling of Euphoria experienced by one and all, everyone went home with smile and contentment, hoping to be a part of the celebrations next year.
