Vibrant holy procession marks Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrations in Hyderabad

The 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the first Sikh Guru and founder of Sikhism, began on a vibrant note on Saturday (November 1) with a colourful Nagar Keertan (holy procession) taken out from Gurudwara Saheb, Secunderabad. The procession featured the holy scripture Guru Granth Sahib carried on a beautifully decorated vehicle and displays of the traditional Sikh martial art Gatka through the city bylanes.

Devotees participate in the Nagar Kirtan commemorating the 556th Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji in Secunderabad on Saturday.
| Photo Credit:
RAMAKRISHNA G

Bright yellow light palanquins, resembling illuminated umbrellas, led the procession. The shimmering lights, beating of drums, and rhythmic chants created a festive and spiritual atmosphere. Along the route, volunteers distributed water bottles, snacks and langar (food) from trolleys and goods vehicles that moved as part of the procession. Devotees and passers-by joined in, seeking blessings as the procession wound its way through the heart of Secunderabad.

Sikh youths from Punjab and Hyderabad enthralled onlookers with gatka performances, showcasing agility and discipline with traditional weapons such as swords.

Devotees participate in the Nagar Kirtan commemorating the 556th Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji in Secunderabad on Saturday.
| Photo Credit:
RAMAKRISHNA G

Organised as part of the ongoing Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrations, the procession began from Gurudwara Saheb, Secunderabad, and passed through Manohar Talkies, Clock Tower, BATA, Patny Circle, Kingsway, Monda Market and Alpha Hotel before returning to the Gurudwara in the evening. LED screens mounted on vehicles depicted scenes from Guru Nanak Devji’s life and teachings, adding a reflective dimension to the vibrant procession.

A second Nagar Keertan will be held on November 3 (Monday) from Gurudwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Afzalgunj. The procession will pass through Afzalgunj, Siddiamber Bazar, Jambagh, Putlibowli and Central Gurudwara Saheb, Gowliguda, before concluding at Gurudwara Singh Sabha, Afzalgunj around 9 p.m. Thousands of devotees from across Telangana and neighbouring States are expected to participate.

The main celebration, a mass congregation, will be organised on November 5 at the Exhibition Grounds, Nampally, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.