Speaking at Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha in Paidleganj on Sunday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that communities that honour the valour and sacrifices of their ancestors live forever in history. Addressing a congregation for the first Parkash Purab of Guru Granth Sahib, he said that the Sikh Gurus dedicated their lives to protecting Sanatan dharma, Indian culture, and the nation.
During the event, Adityanath inaugurated tourism development works, including upgrades to the Gurdwara building and an expansion of its basic facilities. He also joined the 'sangat' in the recitation of Guruvani.
The Chief Minister praised the Sikh tradition, stating that "From Guru Nanak Dev Ji to Guru Gobind Singh Ji Maharaj, every Guru dedicated his life to the protection of Sanatan dharma and the nation. Whenever Indian culture was in crisis, the Sikh Gurus stood firm and defended it through their sacrifices." He noted that similar programmes to honour Guru Tegh Bahadur's 350th martyrdom anniversary and Guru Nanak Dev's 550th Parkash Purab had been held at the Chief Minister's residence in Lucknow.
Adityanath paid homage to Guru Gobind Singh's four Sahibzadas, whose "supreme sacrifice is among the most glorious chapters of Indian history." He lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to observe December 26 as 'Veer Baal Diwas' in their honour, calling it a "historic tribute to the Sikh Gurus' sacrifices."
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The Chief Minister said that the Paidleganj Gurdwara had long been a centre of faith for the Sikh community but had lacked adequate facilities. With the support from the government, devotees can now participate in Guruvani, Langar and several other religious programmes without any hassle. He also pointed out that Gurdwaras welcome everyone, regardless of caste or community, reflecting the universal message of Sikh tradition. He also announced that three major Gurdwaras in Gorakhpur have been upgraded, which he described as a gesture of gratitude towards the Sikh Gurus.
Adityanath reminded the gathering that 421 years ago, Guru Granth Sahib Ji was enshrined at Harmandir Sahib and accepted as a Guru. He asserted that the greatest duty of the people today is to live by the Gurus' teachings and safeguard the nation and dharma. He expressed his privilege at being able to join the celebrations in Gorakhpur and unite the Sikh community of eastern Uttar Pradesh.