Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh :
Over 500 youths and children participate; leaders call dastar a symbol of Sikh identity, pride and responsibility
Under the guidance of Shiromani Akali Dal president Sardar Sukhbir Singh Badal and the leadership of Youth Akali Dal president Sardar Sarabjit Singh Jhijar, a two-day special dastar camp under the campaign ‘Meri Dastar Meri Shaan’ was successfully organised at Gurdwara Sri Nathana Sahib, Jand Mangholi (Ghanaur). The camp was dedicated to the festivals of Lohri and Maghi and witnessed enthusiastic participation from the Sikh sangat, especially the younger generation.
The camp was inaugurated by SGPC member Jathedar Jasmer Singh Lachhru, while on the concluding day, Palvinder Singh Talwara and Bibi Parvinder Kaur, wife of Youth Akali Dal president Sarabjit Singh Jhijar, attended as special guests. More than 500 youths and children took part in the two-day programme and tied dastars with pride and devotion.
Expert sewadars guided participants on the traditional Sikh method of tying the dastar and explained its spiritual, cultural and historical significance. The camp aimed at strengthening the bond of the younger generation with Sikh values, discipline and identity. Large numbers of devotees were present throughout the programme and appreciated the initiative taken by Youth Akali Dal.
Addressing the gathering, Jathedar Jasmer Singh Lachhru said that ‘Meri Dastar Meri Shaan’ is not merely a campaign, but a powerful movement to awaken the true spirit of Sikhism among the youth. He stated that as per the vision of Sardar Sukhbir Singh Badal, the core objective of Youth Akali Dal is to connect the younger generation with Sikh religion, history, culture and high moral values.
He added that the dastar is not just a piece of cloth but a symbol of Sikh honour, discipline and responsibility bestowed by the Gurus. Protecting and respecting it, he said, is the duty of every Sikh. Lachhru also noted that Shiromani Akali Dal remains committed to Sikh causes and that its workers are dedicated to the Sikh Panth.
Palvinder Singh Talwara, in his address, urged youths to adopt Sikh values, wear the dastar with pride and follow the teachings of the Gurus to become role models for society. He also assured that Youth Akali Dal will continue organising similar dastar camps and religious-cultural activities across Punjab in the future.
At the conclusion, Jathedar Jasmer Singh Lachhru thanked the entire Youth Akali Dal team and volunteers for their tireless efforts in making the two-day camp a grand success, calling it a result of collective dedication and service.