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Anandpur Sahib: On the eve of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the holy city of Anandpur Sahib turned into a sea of devotees as Sikh high priests renewed their forceful call for the immediate release of Bandi Singhs — Sikh prisoners whom they insist continue to languish in jails despite completing their judicial sentences.

Akal Takht Jathedar’s Strong Rebuke to Governments

Addressing a packed congregation at Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj delivered a stirring speech that drew emotional reactions from the sangat.
He said that as the Sikh community remembers Guru Tegh Bahadur — the epitome of sacrifice and protector of religious freedom — there could be “no better homage” than securing the release of those Sikh detainees who, according to him, have long completed their terms.

He questioned the government’s intentions bluntly: “If those convicted in the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi can walk free, then why can Bandi Singhs who have completed their sentences not be granted the same justice?”

Gargaj criticised both the Punjab Government and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, accusing them of failing to pursue the matter sincerely with the Centre. “If the Centre and Punjab truly want to honour Guru Tegh Bahadur’s legacy, they must start by releasing Bandi Singhs,” he asserted.

Religious Ceremonies Draw Massive Youth Participation

Earlier, Sikh high priests conducted an Amrit Sanchar ceremony at Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib, where devotees — particularly youth — participated in large numbers.
The SGPC’s Dharam Parchar Committee distributed literature on Sikh teachings, urging youngsters to adopt the “true form of Sikhi” and re-engage with their spiritual roots.

Dhadi jathas from schools across Anandpur Sahib captivated the audience with ballads of bravery and sacrifice, adding a deep emotional resonance to the day.

Anandpur Sahib Sees Record Pilgrim Rush

As the main events draw closer, Anandpur Sahib witnessed one of its heaviest pilgrim footfalls in recent years.
The narrow lanes leading to Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib and Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib were packed with families, elderly devotees and youth groups. Traffic slowed to a crawl as thousands walked towards the revered shrines. Local administrators said they expect lakhs of pilgrims over the next 24 hours.

SGPC Showcases Sikh Martial Heritage Through Special Display

A major attraction this year was a specially designed bus stationed outside Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib. Modelled as a mobile exhibition, it showcases replicas of Guru Gobind Singh’s weapons — swords, spears, shields and other artefacts central to the Khalsa martial tradition. Devotees queued up for long hours to view the display, many calling it a “profound spiritual experience” that deepened their understanding of Sikh history.

Bandi Singhs Issue Gains Renewed Voice

With lakhs of pilgrims converging on Anandpur Sahib, the demand for the release of Bandi Singhs once again resonated strongly through the commemorations. Priests, community leaders and devotees expressed hope that the solemn occasion of Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom would move the government to act decisively. As the historic anniversary unfolds, the call for justice — rooted in faith, memory and collective sentiment — remains at the heart of the celebrations in the holy city.