Shabad kirtans, langars mark Guru Nanak jayanti celebrations

New Delhi, Nov 24 (UNI) Holding of 'shabad kirtans', recitation of the holy books of the Sikhs and serving of 'langars' (community kitchens) marked the celebration the birthday of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, in the national capital today.

The celebrations started early this morning with the recitation of the Sukhmani Sahib and Nitnem and performance of shabad kirtans by the renowned ragi jathas at various Gurudwaras, including Gurudwara Rakab Ganj and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib.

On the occasion, a gurbani recital was also organised at the Rashtrapati Bhawan which was attended by President Pratibha Patil.

At the Gurudwara Rakab Ganj, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, Lt Governor Tejender Khanna, Education Minister Aravinder Singh and prominent members of the Delhi Sikh Gurudwara Management committee (DSGMC) participated in the celebrations along with thousands of devotees.

The Chief Minister, the Lt Governor and the Education Minister were honoured with a 'siropa' (robe of honour) by the president, secretary and prominent members of the DSGMC on the occasion.

The Lt Governor gave an assurance to the DSGMC that the 10-acre land near the Majnu Ka Tila will be handed over to the Gurudwara committee.

An appeal was also made to the Delhi government and the DDA for the allotment of land for Gurudwaras in the Sikh colonies in the capital.

'Langars' were served to all irespective of their caste, colour, and creed across the capital.

UNI