He encouraged devotees to participate in the major events being held from November 23 to 25 at Sri Anandpur Sahib.
Punjab CM Mann Releases INR 71 Crore to Revive 142 Guru Tegh Bahadur Villages
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has distributed cheques worth INR 71 crore for the development of 142 villages and towns sanctified by the divine presence of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. The initiative is part of the state’s observance of the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the Ninth Sikh Guru. Mann described this step as a humble effort by the Punjab Government. He noted that any contribution remains small before the Guru’s supreme sacrifice, life, and teachings.
According to an official statement, the grants will be used to strengthen basic infrastructure, upgrade amenities for devotees, beautify roads leading to sacred sites, and carry out essential development works to modernise these areas. Mann said the effort aims to preserve the sacred sites associated with Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and improve facilities for those visiting these historically significant locations.
The Chief Minister handed over cheques to sarpanches, councillors, and elected representatives from villages and towns across Malwa, Doaba, and Majha. He said that commemorating the 350th martyrdom anniversary of the Guru, who made the ultimate sacrifice for the protection of humanity, is a historic moment for all.
Mann criticised those questioning the government’s efforts. He said that some groups are opposing the initiative with ill intent. He accused the Akalis of frequently using religion to cover political failures and said it was hypocritical for them to question the government’s devotion. He added that previous governments had always observed centenaries of the Sikh Gurus, and opponents were now conspiring against these efforts despite the government’s sincerity.
Mann urged people to follow the Guru’s message of truth, humanity, and compassion, which he said remains deeply relevant today. He encouraged devotees to participate in the major events being held from November 23 to 25 at Sri Anandpur Sahib. Nagar Kirtans have already begun from Srinagar and Punjab cities, including Faridkot, Gurdaspur, and Talwandi Sabo.
He said commemorative programmes began on October 25 with Ardas at Delhi’s Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib and included light and sound shows across Punjab. The upcoming events will feature exhibitions, drone shows, an interfaith conference, and a special session of the Punjab Legislative Assembly on November 24. A state-level blood donation camp will be held on November 25, along with the establishment of a “Tent City” named Chakk Nanaki to host many devotees.
