Drive to curb religious conversions

Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, officiating Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht and Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, along with Baba Tek Singh, Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib, today formally launched the “Khuaar Hoye Sabh Milenge” (those feeling dejected and in despair will reunite) religious preaching campaign by beating the Nagara (drum) at Gurdwara Janam Asthan Bhai Jeevan Singh in Gaggo Mahal village located in the Ajnala area of Amritsar.

The campaign has been initiated by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee’s (SGPC) Dharam Parchar Committee under the auspices of Sri Akal Takht. On the occasion, a special Gurmat Samagam (religious congregation) was organised. Raagi, dhadi (balladeers) and Kavishar (poetry orators) jathas connected the congregation with Gurbani and Sikh history. The Ardas of the congregation was done by Jathedar Gargaj himself.

Jathedar Giani Gargaj said under the campaign, efforts would be made to spread Sikhi in Punjab and other states. He said the campaign will address the recent increase in religious conversions in Punjab and promote unity among Sikhs.

“The philosophy and message of the Sikh Gurus will be disseminated and Sangat will be inspired to take Amrit,” he said. Over the next year, events will be organised with the support of the SGPC, aiming to spiritually uplift families through Gurbani and Gurmat. Gargaj said he would visit gurdwaras to preach Sikhi and acknowledged that anti-Sikh Deras were a major concern that must be countered.

Amritsar