Patna: The 358th Prakash Utsav of the 10th Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji, commenced on Saturday, January 4, at Patna Sahib, Bihar, with a vibrant start marked by Prabhat Pheri and Nagar Kirtan. The historic gurudwara echoed with chants of “Bole So Nihal Sat Sri Akal” as thousands of devotees gathered to pay homage. The three-day festival is expected to draw lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad. According to Jagjot Singh, President of the Patna Sahib Gurudwara Management Committee, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is likely to attend on January 6 at 1 pm. Several state and central government ministers, including Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Governor Mohammad Arif Khan, and Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, have also been invited to join the celebrations.
Extensive Arrangements for Devotees
Preparations for accommodating the influx of devotees began early, with thousands arriving from states such as Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Chandigarh. The management committee has made extensive arrangements for their stay, reserving facilities at Bal Leela Gurudwara, Kangan Ghat, the Main Gurudwara Patna Sahib, and nearby guest houses.
A 24-hour langar, provided by Bhuri Wala and the management committee, has been set up to ensure food for all attendees. Jagjot Singh acknowledged the support of the Bihar government, which has collaborated to ensure smooth management of the event.
A Vibrant Celebration of Faith
Prakash Utsav commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh, a spiritual leader and warrior who founded the Khalsa Panth. The Patna Sahib Gurudwara, his birthplace, is a central site of devotion for Sikhs worldwide. The festival’s opening day witnessed a grand procession and devotional singing, setting the tone for the days ahead. With proper arrangements in place, Patna Sahib is poised to welcome an overwhelming number of devotees in honour of one of Sikhism’s most revered figures.
