Guru Ramdas Ji's Birth Anniversary Draws Thousands to the Golden Temple's 'Sarovar'
The Parkash Purb of Sri Guru Ramdas Ji is an occasion of profound significance within the Sikh community. It is a day that commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Ramdas Ji, the fourth among the ten revered Sikh Gurus. The term "Parkash Purb" itself carries a deep spiritual connotation, translating to "the day of light." It symbolizes the enlightenment and spiritual illumination that Guru Ramdas Ji brought to his followers.
The heart of the Parkash Purb celebrations is the revered Sri Darbar Sahib, popularly known as the Golden Temple, located in Amritsar. Devotees from various parts of the country, and even from beyond, gather at this supreme Sikh shrine to pay their respects and participate in the sacred festivities. The entire complex exudes a sense of spirituality and devotion.
One of the most sacred rituals of the day is taking a holy dip in the 'saro,' a pool of blessed water. This act enhances the spiritual significance of the Parkash Purb, purifying the soul and reaffirming one's faith in the teachings of Guru Ramdas Ji. Pilgrims begin arriving at the Darbar Sahib early in the morning, eager to partake in this transformative experience.
To mark the Parkash Purb, the Golden Temple is adorned with fragrant flowers, sourced from regions both within the country and abroad. This beautiful display of nature's bounty accentuates the celebration of the birth anniversary of Guru Ramdas. The entire pathway leading to the sanctum sanctorum, Darshani Deori, and the walls of the Akal Takht are adorned with hundreds of quintals of various types of flowers, creating an enchanting and spiritually uplifting ambiance.
Guru Ram Das played a pivotal role in shaping Sikhism, leaving an indelible mark on its history. He was born into a family in Lahore and became the fourth among the ten Sikh Gurus. One of his most remarkable contributions was the founding of the town of Ramdaspur, which is now known as Amritsar, a place of great significance in the Sikh tradition. Under his guidance, the foundation of the Harmandir Sahib, famously recognized as the Golden Temple, was laid. This iconic structure stands as a symbol of Sikh spirituality and inclusivity.
Guru Ram Das was not only a spiritual leader but also a celebrated poet. His literary contributions are noteworthy, as he composed 638 hymns, constituting approximately ten percent of the hymns present in the Guru Granth Sahib, the central religious scripture of Sikhism. His works were composed in 30 ancient ragas of Indian classical music, showcasing the profound spiritual and musical heritage of Sikhism. Guru Ram Das's hymns continue to inspire and uplift the spirits of Sikhs and all those who seek wisdom and solace in his words.
- PTC PUNJABI