Sri Amritsar-Acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj, today announced details of the SGPC-organised centenary events to be held from 23 to 29 November at Sri Anandpur Sahib, marking the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadar Ji and his Sikhs.
He said the programmes include the 350th Guruship Day of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji on 23 November, the martyrdom day on 25 November, and “Sis Saskar Diwas” on 29 November. Special samagams will also be held on 25 November at Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Delhi. A Shaheedi Nagar Kirtan will start from Delhi on 25 November, reach Gurdwara Bibangarh Sahib, Kiratpur Sahib, on 28 November, and conclude at Sri Anandpur Sahib on 29 November.
Jathedar Gargajj appealed to the Khalsa Panth to participate in large numbers and hoist the Khalsa Nishan Sahib at homes and businesses during this week.
He said the Punjab Government has been asked to explain objectionable depictions at the Bhai Jeevan Singh Memorial that violate Sikh maryada, including a picture showing Guru Gobind Singh Ji wearing footwear while administering Amrit. Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sondh has been directed to appear before Sri Akal Takht Sahib within a week.
He criticised the government for giving incomplete information on the centenary events and raised concerns over past remarks by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP leader Harmeet Singh Sandhu against the Guru’s golak and the SGPC, calling the comments baseless and disrespectful.
On the ban of the animation film Hind Di Chadar, he said it was based on recommendations from the SGPC and Sikh scholars, stating the film goes against Sikh sentiments and history.
Regarding the woman who failed to return from Pakistan after travelling with a Sikh jatha, he said the incident has hurt Sikh sentiments and urged the government to clarify how she was allowed to travel. He said Pakistan authorities have assured that efforts are being made to send her back soon so future jathas are not affected.
