Patna: The second day of the three-day Prakash Utsav, celebrating the 358th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, witnessed an overwhelming participation of over 10,000 devotees in the vibrant Nagar Kirtan (religious procession) on Sunday. Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth and final Sikh Guru, is revered as the founder of the Khalsa Panth.
Highlights of the Procession
The Nagar Kirtan commenced at 1 PM from Gai Ghat Gurdwara, concluding at Takhat Shri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib Gurdwara by 7:30 PM. Leading the procession were the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones), adorned in traditional attire, followed by the Palki Sahib (palanquin) carrying the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikhs. The procession was enriched with devotional hymns, Shabad Kirtan, and cultural displays, including martial arts performances like Gatka.
Key attractions included:
Sword demonstrations and performances with traditional weapons.
Musical renditions by Ranjit Nagara (war drum) and school bands.
Procession elements such as decorated horses, camels, and elephants.
The 1.5-kilometer-long march passed through landmarks such as Patna City Court, Paschim Darwaza, Khajekalan, and Chowk. Enthusiastic committee members and locals provided refreshments like snacks, juices, and water at various points along the route.
Participation and Hospitality
According to Mahendra Pal Singh Dhillon, a member of the Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Prabandhak Committee, approximately 5,000 international devotees were among the participants, hailing from countries like Canada, the USA, and Australia. The event saw contributions from 50 horses, four camels, and three elephants, with around 40 horses brought in specifically from Punjab.
To accommodate the influx of devotees, arrangements were made in tent cities and accommodations like Punjab Bhavan and Kangan Ghat. Over 2 lakh people were served Langar (community meals) at various locations, including Patna Sahib Gurdwara and Bal Leela Gurdwara.
Upcoming Celebrations
The main function is scheduled for Monday at Patna Sahib Gurdwara, beginning at 9 AM. The event will feature Katha (storytelling) and Kirtan (devotional singing). VIP guests are expected to join the celebrations in the afternoon.
Global Devotee Experience
Inderjeet Singh, a resident of Calgary, Canada, expressed his joy at attending the event, calling Patna Sahib Gurdwara “the most sacred place.” Other attendees included Malkit Singh from New York, Amrit Pal Singh and Gurucharan Singh from Australia, and Durjeet Kaur from Edmonton.
The Prakash Utsav continues to embody the spirit of devotion, unity, and cultural pride, bringing together Sikh communities from across the globe.
