28 October 2026 (Navroze Bureau) Amritsar witnessed a massive gathering of devotees on Tuesday as lakhs of people from across India and abroad visited Sri Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as the Golden Temple, to mark the 492nd Parkash Purb of Sri Guru Ram Das Ji, the fourth Sikh Guru and founder of the holy city.
The sacred occasion was celebrated with deep devotion, Gurbani Kirtan, religious congregations and special arrangements across the Golden Temple complex. Devotees offered prayers, paid obeisance and took a holy dip in the sacred sarovar, seeking blessings and praying for the welfare of all humanity.
The celebrations brought a spiritual atmosphere to Amritsar, with the shrine decorated with colourful flowers and traditional ceremonial displays attracting the attention of visitors.
Golden Temple Sees Huge Devotee Turnout
Large numbers of devotees began arriving at Sri Harmandir Sahib ahead of the main celebrations. The influx of pilgrims resulted in long queues for darshan, with reports indicating that some visitors had to wait several hours to pay obeisance.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) made arrangements for the occasion to facilitate the gathering and organise religious programmes. Devotees from different parts of the country and overseas participated in the celebrations, reflecting the importance of Guru Ram Das Ji’s Parkash Purb for the Sikh community.
Many devotees offered prayers for peace, prosperity and Sarbat da Bhala, a central Sikh principle that calls for the welfare of all humanity.
Special Jalau Displays Attract Devotees
One of the major attractions was the traditional display of sacred and historical articles, known as Jalau Sahib. These ceremonial displays were arranged at Sri Harmandir Sahib, Sri Akal Takht Sahib and Gurdwara Baba Atal Rai Sahib.
The displays featured precious historical objects associated with Sikh religious heritage, including gold and silver articles and jewellery. Devotees viewed the exhibits as part of the special observances marking the birth anniversary of the fourth Sikh Guru.
The Golden Temple complex was also adorned with floral decorations, adding to the festive atmosphere. The arrangements drew attention from pilgrims who had travelled to Amritsar specifically to participate in the celebrations.
Gurbani Kirtan and Religious Congregations
Religious programmes remained at the heart of the celebrations. The SGPC organised the concluding ceremony of the Sri Akhand Path Sahib at Gurdwara Sri Manji Sahib Diwan Hall, followed by devotional performances by renowned Ragi, Dhadi and Kavishar groups.
The recitations and performances connected devotees with Sikh history, Gurbani and the teachings of Guru Ram Das Ji. A special religious discourse was also delivered by Sikh preacher Bhai Pinderpal Singh, who spoke about the life and spiritual legacy of the fourth Guru.
A Kavi Darbar was organised as well, with Sikh poets presenting compositions highlighting Guru Ram Das Ji’s life, contributions and message.
The programmes offered devotees an opportunity to reflect on the Guru’s teachings and their relevance to daily life, particularly the values of humility, service, equality and devotion.
SGPC President Highlights Guru’s Universal Message
SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami extended greetings to the Sikh community on the occasion. He described the shrine associated with Guru Ram Das Ji as a spiritual centre that welcomes people from different backgrounds without discrimination.
Dhami encouraged devotees to follow the Guru’s teachings and remain connected with Gurbani and the Sikh way of life. He emphasised the enduring relevance of the fourth Guru’s message for humanity.
Head Granthi Giani Amarjit Singh and other religious personalities and SGPC representatives also participated in the observances.
Deepmala and Fireworks Mark Evening Celebrations
The celebrations were scheduled to culminate in the evening with traditional Deepmala, illuminating the Golden Temple complex with rows of lights. Fireworks were also planned as part of the main-day festivities.
The illumination is a significant feature of the Parkash Purb celebrations, drawing devotees and visitors who gather to witness the shrine’s appearance after sunset.
Special arrangements for langar were also made to serve the large number of devotees visiting the complex. The community kitchen reflects the Sikh tradition of selfless service and providing food to everyone, irrespective of background or social status.
Remembering the Founder of Amritsar
Sri Guru Ram Das Ji holds a special place in Sikh history as the fourth Sikh Guru and the founder of Amritsar. His teachings continue to guide devotees through the principles of devotion, humility, service and equality.
The annual Parkash Purb brings together the Sikh community to remember his life and spiritual contributions. The large turnout at the Golden Temple this year once again highlighted the deep connection devotees share with Guru Sahib and the historic shrine.
As the celebrations concluded, the prayers and religious gatherings served as a reminder of Guru Ram Das Ji’s enduring legacy and the message of compassion and collective welfare associated with his teachings.