Gurupurab celebrated with devotion

Srinagar, Nov 5: Despite cold weather and intermittent rain, the Sikh community across Kashmir on Wednesday celebrated Gurupurab—the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji—with deep religious fervour and devotion. The day marked the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and one of the most revered spiritual figures in the world.

From the early hours, devotees in colourful traditional attire thronged gurdwaras across the Valley, offering prayers and participating in special religious programmes. The largest congregation was witnessed at the historic Chatti Padshahi Gurdwara in Srinagar’s Rainawari area, where men, women and children attended prayers, listened to devotional hymns (Kirtan Jathas), and took part in community kitchens (langars).

The air resonated with hymns and the aroma of traditional food as hundreds of devotees queued at the langar.

“Even the rain could not dampen our spirits. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message of peace and compassion gives us strength to face all challenges,” said a devotee from Srinagar.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, VK Birdi, visited the Chatti Padshahi Gurdwara and extended greetings to the Sikh community. “I came here to join the celebrations and to pray for peace, harmony and prosperity in the Valley,” he told the media.

Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, also visited the gurdwara to review arrangements and offer greetings. The district administration had made elaborate arrangements to ensure smooth celebrations, with adequate security and sanitation measures in place. Traffic Police had deployed additional personnel and equipment around the Rainawari area and other major gurdwaras to manage the heavy rush of vehicles.

“We had increased our deployment across all routes leading to the gurdwaras to avoid congestion. The cooperation from the public was excellent,” a traffic police official said.

Gurupurab celebrations were also held at gurdwaras in Amira Kadal, Jawahar Nagar, Allochibagh, Barzulla, Rangreth, Pulwama and Baramulla, where devotees gathered in large numbers for prayers and community feasts.

Members of the Sikh community expressed gratitude for the support extended by people from other faiths. “It’s always heartwarming to see our Muslim neighbours and friends helping us during the preparations. Kashmir has always stood for togetherness and mutual respect,” said another devotee.