AI Generated Summary
- In a heartfelt tribute to one of Sikhism’s most eminent literary figures, the Bhai Vir Singh Sahitya Sadan in New Delhi today unveiled a rare collection of relics belonging to the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Teg Bahadur.
- Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan, the chief guest, used the occasion to launch several new titles under the “Navi Paneeri” series—an initiative aimed at introducing contemporary readers to key milestones of Sikh history, including in-depth studies of the Akali movement and detailed biographies of the Sikh Gurus.
- “Through his pen, Bhai Vir Singh illuminated the path of our Gurus and helped erect the pillars of our educational and cultural institutions,” he remarked, urging today’s youth to delve into the poet-scholar’s enduring legacy.
In a heartfelt tribute to one of Sikhism’s most eminent literary figures, the Bhai Vir Singh Sahitya Sadan in New Delhi today unveiled a rare collection of relics belonging to the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Teg Bahadur. The exhibition, inaugurated on Tuesday to coincide with the 68th death anniversary of scholar-poet Bhai Vir Singh, drew scores of devotees and history enthusiasts from across the capital.
Born in Amritsar on December 5, 1872, Bhai Vir Singh is widely credited with spearheading the Sikh renaissance through his prolific writings and tireless advocacy for cultural preservation. His monumental efforts in founding educational institutions and publishing pioneering works on Sikh theology and history have left an indelible mark on modern Sikh consciousness.
The day’s observances began with a solemn Bhog Sehaj Paath and soul-stirring kirtan at the Sahitya Sadan. Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan, the chief guest, used the occasion to launch several new titles under the “Navi Paneeri” series—an initiative aimed at introducing contemporary readers to key milestones of Sikh history, including in-depth studies of the Akali movement and detailed biographies of the Sikh Gurus.
Former First Lady Gursharan Kaur, wife of the late Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, graced the ceremony to release a special commemorative issue of Khalsa Samachar. She presented the inaugural copy to Bhai Vir Singh’s great-granddaughters, Dr. Punita Kaur and Bibi Kanchan, marking a poignant moment of familial pride and historical continuity.
Awaited with particular anticipation was the showcase of sacred artifacts once in the personal custody of Guru Teg Bahadur’s devoted follower, Bhai Roop Chand. These items—painstakingly preserved over generations by the family of Bhai Boota Singh—include intricately inscribed manuscripts, ceremonial weapons, and personal effects that provide a rare, tangible link to the ninth Guru’s life and martyrdom. Visitors stood in reverent silence as they navigated the displays, many pausing to offer prayers and capture photographs of objects that have seldom been seen outside private collections.
In his address, Speaker Sandhwan lauded Bhai Vir Singh as an “eternal writer” whose vision restored hope and identity to a community facing existential challenges in the early 20th century. “Through his pen, Bhai Vir Singh illuminated the path of our Gurus and helped erect the pillars of our educational and cultural institutions,” he remarked, urging today’s youth to delve into the poet-scholar’s enduring legacy.
Organizers hope that the exhibition, which will remain open to the public for the next fortnight, will not only honor the memory of Bhai Vir Singh but also deepen appreciation for the spiritual heritage of Sikhism. As one visitor aptly put it, “Holding these relics in my hands is like touching history itself—an experience that brings the sacrifices and teachings of our Gurus vividly to life.”
