Pathankot/Rajouri –A three-day religious yatra to the birthplace of Khalsa Raj founder and great Sikh general Shaheed Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, located at Rajouri (Jammu & Kashmir), concluded with great devotion and fervor under the leadership of international social worker and founder of PCT Humanity Dr. Joginder Singh Salaria. The sacred land of Rajouri, also blessed by the sixth Guru, Sri Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, witnessed a spiritually uplifting pilgrimage. Today, the jatha returned to Pathankot amidst the resonating sounds of Gurbani and spirited jaikaras.
At the time of departure from Rajouri, the management committee of Gurdwara Chevin Patshahi, led by President S. Inderjit Singh and Chairman Nirman Singh, honored Dr. Salaria, Ayodhya’s Ramanandi Shri Vaishnav Sampradaya saint Mahant Ashish Das Ji, and the accompanying sangat. They expressed hope that such yatras will continue in the future with the same spirit.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Joginder Singh Salaria said that bowing at the birthplace of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur was a profoundly sacred moment. He noted that Baba Banda Singh Bahadur’s life was an unparalleled example of dedication to humanity, justice, and the Guru’s command. “As a Rajput Khatri, I feel immense pride that Banda Bairagi, with Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s blessing, stood steadfast against tyranny and accepted supreme martyrdom,” he said.
Dr. Salaria recalled the unparalleled courage of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, even when subjected to extreme brutality by the Mughal rulers, including the heart-wrenching killing of his young son Bhai Ajai Singh. Despite such barbarity, Baba Banda Singh Bahadur remained unshaken and attained eternal martyrdom, leaving behind an everlasting inspiration.
He further emphasized that such yatras are not only for spiritual enrichment but also for reconnecting with heritage, Sikh history, sacrifices of martyrs, and national unity. These journeys inspire love, communal harmony, the spirit of service, and unwavering faith in the Guru.
During the yatra, PCT Humanity also organized a free medical camp to raise health awareness and extend humanitarian service on a larger scale. Dr. Salaria underlined that public welfare activities, especially healthcare, form an integral part of their commitment and religious endeavors.
The jatha was warmly welcomed along the route with flower showers and jaikaras. At Baba Banda Singh Bahadur’s birthplace, pilgrims paid heartfelt homage, many with moist eyes, remembering his unmatched sacrifices.
Expressing concern over the present situation in Kashmir Valley, Dr. Salaria said his constant prayer before the Guru is for peace, harmony, and prosperity of the people in Jammu & Kashmir. “We wish for improved conditions, strengthened brotherhood, and a peaceful life for the people of this region,” he added.
Special participant Mahant Ashish Das from Ayodhya remarked that Sikhs and Punjabis, through their service spirit and unparalleled sacrifices, have earned a unique identity worldwide. Being part of this yatra, he said, was in itself an honor.
On this occasion, Gurdwara committee members S. Rajinder Singh, S. Amarjit Singh, and yatra manager S. Gurminder Singh Chawla were also present.
Photo Caption – The jatha being honored and bid farewell at Gurdwara Sahib Rajouri before departing for Pathankot after the completion of the yatra.
Skip to content
India Top New