early times report
Jammu, Nov 13: Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) organized a Punjabi Kavi Darbar at Gurudwara Mattan Sahib, District Anantnag (Kashmir), dedicated to the 350th Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji- the revered ninth Guru of the Sikhs, who laid down his life for the cause of religious freedom, human dignity and righteousness. A large number of devotees attended the event and paid obeisance before Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Local residents of Mattan Sahib also participated with deep devotion and reverence. The programme commenced with the recitation of soulful Gurbani Kirtan by eminent Ragi S. Popinder Singh and Dilbeer Singh, presented the divine Shabads of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, spreading the message of peace, humility and spiritual enlightenment. The poets who participated in the programme, included Harleen Kaur, Harmeet Singh, Harpreet Singh, Jagdeep Singh, Sukhmeet Singh, Arshdeep Kour, Pushakar Singh, Satnam Singh, Manjeet Singh etc. S. Ranjit Singh Jathedar threw light on the life, philosophy, and supreme sacrifice of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, emphasizing that his martyrdom remains an everlasting beacon of courage, compassion, and commitment to truth. He also applauded the role of JKAACL for organizing such spiritually and culturally enriching programmes at various places across Jammu & Kashmir. While addressing the gathering, S. Popinder Singh Paras highlighted the importance of organizing Gurmat and literary programmes at historical Gurudwaras such as Mattan Sahib, which attracts thousands of devotees throughout the year. He elaborated on the ongoing efforts and initiatives of the Academy for the promotion of Punjabi literature, art, and culture, acknowledging its role in nurturing intellectual and cultural harmony. He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the District Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee (DGPC), Anantnag, for their cooperation and support in making the event a success. In his remarks, he also appreciated the guidance and vision of Smt. Harvinder Kaur (JKAS), Secretary JKAACL, whose encouragement and keen interest have greatly strengthened the Academy’s cultural activities across the Union Territory. S. Nanak Singh, President, DGPC Anantnag, appreciated the initiatives of the Academy for organizing various literary and cultural programmes in Kashmir, with dedicated efforts. He also urged the youth to actively participate in such cultural and moral awareness events to connect with their roots. The programme was a tribute to the unparalleled martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, whose sacrifice teaches mankind the eternal values of faith, tolerance, sacrifice, and freedom of conscience, inspiring generations to stand firm against oppression and uphold the principles of justice and humanity. The proceedings of the programme were ably conducted by S. Jarnail Singh.
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