The sacred precincts of the Golden Temple resonated with divine chants and joyous cheers as a multitude of devotees, both local and international, gathered to usher in the New Year with fervent prayers.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) had diligently prepared for the overwhelming influx of worshippers, making extra arrangements to ensure the seamless accommodation of the faithful. Amritsar’s vigilant police force was also on high alert, dedicated to maintaining law and order throughout the bustling celebrations.
The clock struck midnight, marking the transition into the New Year, and the sacred grounds of the Golden Temple echoed with the resounding cheers of ‘Bole So Nihal.’ The atmosphere was electrified with the collective spirit of devotion and celebration.
The devotees, undeterred by the chilly weather and dense fog, formed serpentine queues to offer their prayers at the sanctum sanctorum. Many braved the cold to take a holy dip in the pool of nectar, seeking blessings for a prosperous and harmonious year ahead.
Among the distinguished visitors were prominent political figures, adding a touch of grandeur to the spiritual event. Sukhbir Singh Badal, president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), attended the celebration with his wife, former union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal. The former minister and SAD leader, Bikram Singh Majithia, accompanied by his wife MLA Ganieve Kaur Majithia and their children, also paid their respects at the revered shrine.
As the night unfolded, a significant surge in visitors was observed between 10 pm and 1 am, creating an atmosphere charged with positive energy and spiritual zeal. The Golden Temple, adorned with shimmering lights, stood as a beacon of hope and faith, welcoming devotees from all walks of life.
In anticipation of the large turnout, the SGPC’s meticulous planning and the unwavering commitment of the Amritsar police ensured that the celebrations proceeded smoothly. The collective prayers and joyful festivities at the Golden Temple symbolized unity, peace, and the timeless spiritual heritage of the Sikh community, setting a positive tone for the New Year.
