Putting in herculean efforts in garnering support from the Sikh family residents of Punjabi Lane Shillong, funding from far and wide, the beleaguered Sikhs of Shillong, even though living on the edge for the last many years, have managed to build a grand Gurdwara Sahib amidst their habitat, complete in all respects from the Sikh point of view. The World Sikh News team will be present at the inauguration.

In the exalted presence of Sikh leaders Sant Baba Avtar Singh Ji, Mukhi, Samparda Dal Baba Bidhi Chand Ji, Sur Singh wale and Baba Major Singh Ji Sodhi, Jathedar, Dashmesh Tarna Dal, Amritsar, Bhagwant Singh Sialka, incharge Legal Affairs, Shiromani Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee, Amritsar and Jagdeep Singh Kahllon, General Secretary, Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee and many other dignitaries from far and wide and Singh sangat from Assam and Punjabt, the renovated holy premises including the sanctum sanctorum will be inaugurated on the morning of 22 January which will be followed by religious and social programmes.

Despite being under extreme pressure of being thrown out of their home and hearth for the last many decades, the Sikhs of Punjabi lane Shillong have built and renovated the historical Gurdwara amidst their habitat.

According to Sikh historian, lexicographer, writer of Mahan Kosh –The Sikh Encyclopaedia, “The Sikh Gurdwara is a Centre of learning for students, Preacher for Seekers of spiritual knowledge, hospital for the sick, storehouse of food for the hungry, iron fortress for protecting the chasity of women and resting place for the pilgrims.

Historical records mention that the Gurdwara Sahib was established by the Sikh brigade of the British Indian Army in 1861 or even before that time.

Nevertheless, it is historic as hundreds of hard working Sikhs made the place their home nearly two centuries ago.

Eminent Ragis, Kavishar and Kathavachaks -Bhai Sukhjeet Singh Koharka, Hazuri Ragi Darbar Sahib, Amritsar, Bhai Shokeen Singh, Hazuri Ragi Darbar Sahib, Amritsar, Bhai Joga Singh Bhagowal Kavishar, Bhai Varyam Singh Katha Vachak, Gurdwara Manji Sahib, Amritsar, Bhai Shamsher Singh Misarpura Dhadi Jatha, Bhai Amritpal Singh Katha Vachak, Mumbai will render Gurbani Kirtan and teachings of Guru Sahib.

Hundreds of Sikhs will march from Guwahati to Shillong to participate in the historic function.

Speaking to reporters, Gurjeet Singh, the sheetanchor of the gigantic project said, “It will be a historic day for us and the Sikh community. Building a Guru Ghar -the Guru’s Abode is a dream of every Sikh and we are grateful to all Sikh individuals and organisations who have made this possible.

A Turban Tying Competition, Amrit Sanchar and traditional Rein Sabai Kirtan will be held with active participation of young Sikh boys and girls. The local population has also been invited.

Guru Ka Langar will be served throughout the day.