Prakashotsav concludes successfully in city

The three-day celebration of the 352nd birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh concluded in a grand way in the city recently. The event was attended by over 5,000 devotees from various parts of India as well as abroad. The city administration, too, left no stone unturned to ensure that the event was a success. On offer was a rich assortment of music, cultural programmes, art and crafts exhibitions and many other activities.Here are the highlights of the event.
Tent city
In a bid to provide better facilities to the visitors, the administration set up a temporary tent city at Kangan Ghat. Wahegurupal Singh, an official, said, “The tent city accommodated around 2,000
people. All facilities, including toilets, lighting, warm water, parking areas and medicine, were provided to the pilgrims. Also, heaters were provided to keep the area warm.”
Security arrangements
Adequate security measures were in place at the venue. Policemen in civil clothes patrolled the city and women officers were also deployed at Kangan Ghat to keep miscreants in check. Those found indulging in eve-teasing or other offenses were nabbed immediately.
Lights at Patna Sahib Gurudwara
The gurudwara was lit up in multiple hues for the event. The lights were fixed permanently by a Bangalore-based company in 2017. Solar lights were also lit at the main shrine of Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib, Handi Sahib, Guru Ka Bagh and Kangan Ghat.
Cultural events
Processions, which included many cultural activities, were taken out on all the three days. Folk performers showcased their talent and performed many activities. Animals, especially elephants and camels, were also a part of the processions.
Boating on the Ganges
A ship, run by the government, were provided to the visitors to enjoy the beauty of Ganges. The ship was available at Kangan Ghat.
Langar
Sewadaars prepared sweets and other dishes with much devotion and served it to the visitors and common people at the two langar halls set up within the tent city. Gurpreet Singh, a devotee from Punjab, said, “We all are thankful to Sangat Gurudaspur for preparing such a sumptuous langar for us. This is my first visit to Patna and I loved it.”