From 22 to24 December 1989, Sangat of Guru Nanak Darbar in Augusta, Georgia remained busy in a series of activities marking the joyous occasion by the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
In addition to the Akhand path and decoration of the Gurdwara with electric lights, children enjoyed fireworks,
On 24th, Bhai Sahib Ajit Singh led the kirtan which was dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji and his philosophy.
Dr. Diljit Kaur Chatha presented a program of historical highlights. In her introductory remarks, she stated that all Sikhs must share commitment to safeguarding the truth and purity of Sikhism and prepare ambassadors of Sikhism of enhancing children’s knowledge and pride in the Sikh way.
Entitled “Dhan Guru Gobind Singh Sahib” the program focused upon the following.
Selected events from the life of Guru Gobind Singh Ji (1666-1708).
Circumstances that forced Guru Sahib and his Sikhs to engage in battles to defend themselves and their doctrine.
Guru Sahib’s mission of “Shub Karma.”
Creation of the distinct identity of the Khalsa and the Sikhs with confidence to become a hardworking and progress oriented community.
Guru Sahib’s recitations of learning, developing new culture, literature and fine arts.
Guru Sahib’s encouragement of the training of using the weapons, wearing them for self-defense.
Speakers for the occasion were Sardar Harcharanjit Singh Khera and Professor Pritpal Singh Chatha. S. Harcharan’s speech focused upon the fundamental similarity of the message of the ten Sikh gurus. He stated that Guru Gobind gave a concrete form to the philosophy of the earlier gurus.
Prof Chatha emphasized the Sikhs need for educating themselves about their great heritage through reading Sikh history and Sikh newspapers. He quoted Thomas Jefferson “If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, its expects what never was and never will be.”
He appealed the Guru’s sangat to subscribe for “World Sikh News” and became familiar of the events making history. In explaining Punjab’s situation he said “Sikh nation has given its verdict”, It is up to Sikhs, Indians and world leadership to read it carefully honor it and award what Sikh nation wants, Prof Chatha also emphasized the need for public relations, with other communications faiths and governments.
He appealed to the sangat to support all humanitarian institutions and government who support chardi kala of Sikh panth.
He also appealed all Sikhs to become part of the system and support it in their new adopted homeland.
Children who participated in the program were:
Gobind, Preetinder, Gurinder, Rinku, Pawan, Gurbhajan and Gurjeet Singh, Mehtaab, Harleen, Rupinder, Renu, Harpreet, Jugnum Harinder Kaur, Mrs. Parmar and Mrs. Sandhu.
Article extracted from this publication >> February 16, 1990
