Cincinnati, Ohio: The 555th Parkash Purab of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, was celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm by Sikh community at the Guru Nanak Society of Greater Cincinnati Gurdwara Sahib. The community organized a series of special programs over three days to mark this auspicious occasion.
Prominent Kavishari Jatha (group) of Bhai Mehal Singh, Bhai Gurlal Singh Ji, and Bhai Jugraj Singh were invited to participate in the celebrations. On the second day, after the Nishan Sahib ceremony, a Nagar Kirtan was organized, led by Panj Pyare (the five beloved ones) and accompanied by the sacred presence of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The Nagar Kirtan passed through several residential neighborhoods around the Gurdwara Sahib, attracting participants from neighboring cities like Dayton and States such as Indiana and Kentucky.
During the procession, young children and adults showcased Gatka, the traditional Sikh martial art, under the guidance of head granthi Bhai Jagbir Singh Ji’s son Shahbaz Singh, a 10th-grade student, and Jagjit Singh along with a Gatka group from Indiana. Gatka classes had recently begun at the Gurdwara Sahib, and participants, despite their limited training time, displayed remarkable skills. Along the route, Sikh residents offered langar (free community meals) including hot milk, water, fruits, and sweets to the Sangat (congregation).
The event also saw local Americans stepping out of their homes to greet the Sikh community and learn more about Sikhism. This interaction fostered greater cultural understanding and harmony.
On the final day, the Akhand Path Sahib (a continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib) concluded with a Bhog ceremony. Bhai Jagbir Singh Ji, the head granthi and preacher, delivered an enlightening discourse on Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s life and teachings. Kirtan Jatha of Bhai Gurbant Singh, Bhai Jeet Singh, and Bhai Ravinder Singh recited the melodious renditions of Gurbani. Bhai Mehal Singh Ji’s kavishari group captivated the congregation with their soulful poetry.
Langar was continuously served throughout the three-day event. The management committee expressed gratitude to the volunteers, Sangat, and the West Chester Police Department for their support during the Nagar Kirtan and other activities.
