Punjab Chief Minister Advocates for Holy City Designation for Nanded Sahib
In a significant announcement on Saturday, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann declared that his government would formally request the Maharashtra government to grant holy city status to Nanded Sahib. The announcement came after Mann paid obeisance at Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib in Nanded, Maharashtra, underscoring the town's profound spiritual importance for Sikhs and humanity at large.
Spiritual Significance and Historical Connection
Addressing a gathering of devotees and local residents, Mann emphasized that Nanded Sahib holds immense religious significance as the place where the 10th Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh, spent a considerable portion of his life. He stated, "Nanded Sahib is a sacred place not only for Sikhs but for entire humanity, as Guru Gobind Singh's presence has sanctified this land." The Chief Minister highlighted that granting holy city status would serve as a befitting tribute to Guru Gobind Singh's legacy and contributions.
Punjab's Precedent and Commitment
Mann recalled that the Punjab government has already declared Sri Amritsar Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib, and Talwandi Sabo as holy cities, demonstrating the state's commitment to preserving Sikh heritage. He asserted, "On similar lines, an announcement for Nanded Sahib should also be made by the Maharashtra government, for which the Punjab government will make all possible efforts." This move aligns with the government's dedication to the Guru Sahiban and their teachings.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Pilgrim Facilities
In addition to the holy city status demand, Mann announced a complete facelift of the Punjab Bhawan in Nanded Sahib. He revealed plans to upgrade the facility with ultra-modern amenities to better serve devotees visiting the sacred town. Furthermore, the supply of Verka milk products in Nanded will be streamlined to benefit pilgrims, ensuring they have access to essential provisions during their spiritual journey.
Mann pledged, "No stone will be left unturned to ensure every possible facility for the devotees visiting this sacred place." This commitment reflects the government's focus on enhancing pilgrimage experiences and supporting religious tourism.
Broader Context and Cultural Contributions
Highlighting the broader contributions of Punjabis to India, Mann noted their stellar role in the freedom struggle, achieving food self-sufficiency, and safeguarding national unity. He connected this to recent commemorations, such as the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Teg Bahadur Ji at Sri Anandpur Sahib, aimed at keeping younger generations connected with Sikh philosophy and sacrifices.
At Takht Sri Hazur Sahib, one of the five highest seats of religious authority in Sikhism, Mann prayed for the progress and prosperity of Punjab and its people. He emphasized the shrine's role in providing spiritual, temporal, and moral strength to the Sikh community, reinforcing the importance of preserving such sacred sites.
The Chief Minister's visit and announcements underscore a concerted effort to strengthen religious and cultural ties between Punjab and Maharashtra, while promoting the spiritual heritage of Nanded Sahib on a national platform.
