The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC), Dimapur, and Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Dimapur, organised a three-day programme from August 28 to 30 to commemorate the 350th Martyrdom Anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Dimapur.

The programme formed part of the year-long national commemoration and brought together members of the Sikh community, devotees, traditional Gurdwara cultural artistes, community leaders, local guests and the public.

The commemoration began on August 28 with the Arambh Sri Akhand Path Sahib, followed by the inaugural programme and welcome address by Harjinder Pal Singh Ahluwalia, President of Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Dimapur.

An Evening Diwan was held on August 29, with the Gurdwara premises illuminated to mark the occasion. Langar was arranged for around 150 people, while local guests and community leaders participated in the programme.

The three-day observance concluded on August 30 with Bhog Sri Akhand Path Sahib and Seva Nishan Sahib. Shabad Kirtan by Bhai Harpal Singh & Sons was presented, while Dr Pritpal Kaur Batra, IPS, DIG, CID, attended the closing ceremony as Chief Guest.

Director of NEZCC, Alobo Naga, addressed the gathering and highlighted the life and supreme sacrifice of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, particularly his message of courage, compassion, tolerance and freedom of faith.

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Alobo Naga said the values embodied by Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji continue to remain relevant to humanity, particularly in promoting peace, dignity, religious tolerance and unity.

He also highlighted the cultural diversity of the Northeast, observing that its rich linguistic, cultural and religious plurality is a strength and that culture can serve as a bridge to bring different communities together.

The NEZCC Director further shared details of commemorative programmes organised at Dhubri, Maligaon, Guwahati and Hojai, and informed the gathering about upcoming programmes at Agartala, Shillong, Imphal and Naharlagun.

Following the welcome address, distinguished guests were felicitated by the Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee. Siropas and mementos were also presented.

The programme concluded with Guru Ka Atut Langar, with seva undertaken by the Samuh Sadh Sangat, Dimapur.

The three-day commemoration witnessed sustained participation from the Sikh community, traditional cultural artistes, devotees, community representatives and leaders of various Dimapur-based unions and samaj organisations, creating an atmosphere of communal harmony and inclusiveness.