Gurpurb on Jan 7

Amritsar, Punjab: The Sikh clergy today decided to celebrate Guru Gobind Singh’s birth anniversary on January 7 instead of December 28. The Martyrdom Day of the four Sahibzadas also falls on December 28.

Addressing mediapersons, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh said: “We have directed the SGPC and the Sikh Sangat to celebrate Guru Gobind Singh’s birth anniversary on January 7 instead of December 28.” He said those who wished to celebrate Gurpurb on December 28 could do so. The Tenth Guru’s birth anniversary falls on January 5 every year as per the original Nanakshahi Calendar. But as per the amended calendar, the date changes every year. The SGPC is following the amended calendar.

The Sikh clergy awarded ‘tankhah’ to SGPC member Magwinder Singh Khaparkheri for using tables to serve langar at Gurdwara Chheharta Sahib. The Jathedar said Khaparkheri had apologised for the offence. The SGPC has already initiated action against the gurdwara manager.

The Jathedar said a local trader had been awarded ‘tankhah’ for keeping religious literature in his godown. The All-India Sikh Conference chief, Gurcharan Singh Babbar, who had used objectionable language for the clergy, had apologised and had been pardoned, he said.

They cautioned the Sikh Sangat against the RSS activities in rural areas. Objecting to ‘gatka’ being projected as a stunt, they said the martial art must be practiced as per the Sikh ‘maryada’.

On the clash between Dera Sacha Sauda followers and Sikhs in Ferozepur, the high priests said they had had a word with police officials and the matter would be resolved soon.

On Gurbaksh Singh Khalsa resuming his stir to seek the release of Sikh detainees, the Akal Takht Jathedar said they had forwarded his letter to Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal.

Source: The Tribune