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Guru Nanak Dev birth anniversary celebrated in Cincinnati

The 555th Parkash Purab of Guru Nanak Dev was celebrated with a Nagar Kirtan procession by the diaspora community.

Gatka Team Members. / Image - Sameep Singh Gumtala

The Sikh community in Cinncinati celebrated the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism at the Guru Nanak Society of Greater Cincinnati Gurdwara Sahib, Ohio.

The three-day event featured a series of religious and cultural programs marking the auspicious occasion. Prominent Sikh folk artists, Kavishari Jatha, led by  Mehal Singh, Gurlal Singh, and Jugraj Singh, was invited to perform during the celebrations. 

On the second day, following the Nishan Sahib ceremony, a Nagar Kirtan procession took place, led by Panj Pyare (the five beloved ones), with the presence of Guru Granth Sahib. The procession passed through nearby neighborhoods and drew participants from cities like Dayton, as well as states such as Indiana and Kentucky.

During the Nagar Kirtan, young and adult Sikhs demonstrated Gatka, the traditional Sikh martial art, under the guidance of Shahbaz Singh, a 10th-grade student, and other trainers.  Volunteers along the route offered langar (free community meals), including hot milk, water, fruits, and sweets, to the congregation.
 

Glimpses of the three-day celebration. / Image - Sameep Singh Gumtala

The event also saw local residents engage with the Sikh community, fostering cultural exchange and understanding. On the final day, the Akhand Path Sahib concluded with a Bhog (sacred feast) ceremony. Jagbir Singh, the head granthi (priest), gave a speech on Guru Nanak Dev’s life and teachings. 

The Kirtan Jatha, led by Gurbant Singh,  Jeet Singh, and Ravinder Singh, recited Gurbani hymns, while Mehal Singh’s Kavishari group enchanted the audience with soulful poetry.

Langar was served throughout the event, with the management committee thanking volunteers, Sangat, and the West Chester Police Department for their support during the celebrations.
 

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