TAXILA: The historic Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasanabdal was filled with hymns, prayers and a spirit of devotion on Monday as Sikh devotees gathered to observe the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth and last Guru of the Sikh faith.
The 360th birth anniversary, known as Prakash Purab, was marked with special religious activities, including continuous recitation from the Guru Granth Sahib, devotional kirtan and collective prayers. The celebrations created an atmosphere of reverence and reflected the enduring spiritual significance of the shrine for Sikh pilgrims from across the country.
Rituals began early in the morning as worshippers assembled to offer ardas and listen to readings from the Sikh holy scripture. A colourful procession was also held within the gurdwara premises as part of the celebrations. As per Sikh tradition, langar was arranged for all visitors, emphasising the principles of equality, community service and sharing. The observances concluded with prayers for peace, harmony and unity.
Speaking on the occasion, Gullbeer Singh, the granthi (caretaker) of Gurdwara Panja Sahib, highlighted the life and legacy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. He said the Guru, born in 1666, played a central role in shaping Sikh identity and strengthening the community’s commitment to justice and resistance against oppression. He noted that the establishment of the Khalsa Panth in 1699 transformed the Sikh community into a disciplined collective bound by faith, equality and courage.
Local Sikh leaders and devotees also shared their reflections. Sardar Jaggi Singh said the birth anniversary served as a reminder of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s teachings of courage and equality, adding that celebrating the occasion at Panja Sahib strengthened the community’s spiritual bond and sense of heritage. Another devotee, Balbir Kaur, said observing Prakash Purab at the historic gurdwara connected the present generation with their ancestors and the values taught by the Guru.
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Younger participants highlighted the broader message of interfaith harmony associated with the event. Sukhdev Singh said the presence of people from different backgrounds demonstrated that Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s teachings of peace, service and unity remained relevant in contemporary society.
ETPB official Asmat Ullah said the event reflected Pakistan’s commitment to preserving religious heritage and promoting interfaith harmony.https://t.co/jCgVCupK6Y
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Officials from the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), which oversees Sikh religious sites in Pakistan, were also present. ETPB official Asmat Ullah said the celebrations reflected Pakistan’s commitment to preserving religious heritage and promoting interfaith harmony. He added that Gurdwara Panja Sahib holds deep historical and spiritual importance for Sikhs worldwide and is a symbol of religious pluralism.
Community representatives said such events not only honour Sikh religious traditions but also contribute to social cohesion in the region, underscoring shared values of mutual respect, peace and coexistence.
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