Punjab: Josh, Mann, Kejriwal join prayers as martyrdom events begin

Punjab: Celebrations for the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur began with religious fervor in Anandpur Sahib. Nagar Kirtans from Assam and Srinagar arrived in the city and were welcomed by a large number of devotees, led by SGPC officials. The center of the day’s events was Gurdwara Sheesh Ganj Sahib, where the severed head of Guru Tegh Bahadur was cremated. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal sought blessings for the commencement of the “Akhand Paath” (monsoon prayer) at Gurdwara Baba Budha Dal Chhawani on Sunday. During the Sarva Dharam Sammelan, both leaders refrained from making political statements amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the central government’s alleged move to introduce a bill aimed at bringing Chandigarh under Article 240.
The Chief Minister and Arvind Kejriwal stated that they sought the blessings of the Guru Granth Sahib for the smooth conduct and conclusion of the state’s commemorative events. They described the Guru Granth Sahib as a beacon of peace and tranquility for all humanity and said it was their duty to follow the lofty ideals set by the Sikh Gurus. They said that this scripture is a repository of brotherhood, secularism, and social justice throughout the world. The leaders further stated that the state government is fully following the teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib for the welfare and enlightenment of the people of Punjab. They said that inspired by the Guru’s message, the government has organized these grand events to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary, and appealed to the people to follow the ideals of secularism, humanity, and sacrifice as propounded and adopted by Guru Tegh Bahadur, the Chadar of India. Kejriwal and Mann appealed to the people to participate in the events being organized by the state government from November 23 to 25.