Sikh Religion - An Universal Cult of Brotherhood
The Sikh religion, which originated in Punjab, is based on the teachings of Guru Nanak, and is conceived as a monotheistic faith, whose adherents, the Sardars, at present can be found all over India and abroad too. Its insistence on the universal cult of brotherhood, its plea for equitable social and spiritual liberties for all types of men, its emphasis on the service of man on the road of strong moral codes and, above all, its recognition of the divinity of man and the need of meditation have made Sikhism a subject of great interest across the world. All Sikhs venerate the Guru Granth Sahib, a holy book that contains 'Gurbani', the preaching of Guru Nanak. If you happen to visit a Sigh marriage during your vacation in Punjab, you can see the bride following the groom four times round the Guru Granth Sahib while prayers are sung and hymes are read from the holy book.
Chandigarh - Portraying A Planned Demeanour
For decades, Chandigarh, the capital of Punjab, was known as an affluent but quiet, laid back city ideal for retired people that had little to offer beyond its modern town people and its relaxed way of life. However, it is the first city to initiate the concept of town planning in India. Designed by Le Corbusier, Chandigarh is strategically segregated into 61 sectors. The pollution free air, the wide tree-lined boulevards and avenues, the cool ambiance of Sukhna Lake and the plush interiors belying the dull exteriors contribute to making Chandigarh a haven for fun-loving tourists. Adding a cherry on top of the cake, the trendy city now has found a new way to celebrate life, reflected in its bustling shopping areas, spilling restaurants and spanking new malls. Visit any restaurant in the downtown (Sector 17) and savour on a traditional Punjabi menu in a luxurious ambience, an experience of a lifetime. For a terrific weekend action, drive to the outskirts of the city; at a newly opened mall (Fun Republic) with a multiplex at Mani Majra or to the picturesque Morni hills on Panchkula Road. The latter also houses a bird sanctuary and you can relax amidst lush forests and euphony of colourful birds.
Spend an afternoon at Rock Garden (Sector 1) to give your vacation a newer direction to enjoy. Famed as one of its kind in the whole world, this serene garden exhibits one man Nek Chand's genius to create exquisite works of art out of industrial and urban waste. Move at a stone's throw to echo to the call of nature at Sukhna Lake, a man made lake ideal for quiet communion with nature. One can also indulge into a number of water sport activities such as boating, canoeing and skulling to enjoy a holiday to its best. In the evening, visit Kalagram, a fantastic arts and crafts bazaar where eminent craftsmen from various parts of the country display their creations. A good place for shopping with a rich variety in Indian textiles on display and other handicraft items.
Amritsar Golden Temple - Architecture With A Golden Outlook
Amritsar, the city of celebrated Golden Temple, is indisputably, the religious capital of the Sikhs. As naturally the Hindu's mind turns to Benaras, or the Muslim's to Mecca, do the thoughts of Sikhs turn to Amritsar where the Adi Granth, the original book is kept and incessantly read. The Golden Temple or the Harmandir Sahib nestles amidst the Amrit Sarovar (from which the city got its name) that attracts thousands of devotees round the world. The sacred tank is surrounded by a white marble pathway with a causeway leading across the water to the temple itself. A double storey marble structure, its dome is covered with gold, a placard of devotion of the people for whom offering a part of their earnings is very important. When inside, you will be overwhelmed to see innumerable brilliant multi-coloured patterns embellishing the marble surface and the ceililng. The abode of almighty God is open day and night to all visitors. The celestial melodious 'Kirtan' (prayer) from the 'Gurbani' penetrates deep into the minds of all devotees with its divine gospel.
Celebrate Life In Punjab
People who know how to celebrate life does not need any reason to do so. Yet in Punjab, you will find occasions that especially stand out for managing to capture the popular imagination to the extent of transcending the religion and faith it originated with, crossing over boundaries of caste and creed to bind the state in jubilation. Plan a holiday in April to be a part of Baisakhi, an occasion celebrated to commemorate the establishment of Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699 AD. The Granth Sahib is taken in procession, led by the Panj Pyaras (five senior Sikhs) who are symbolic of the original leaders. Enjoy your hearts out at the 'Baisakhi da Mela' (Baisakhi fair), where you can behold the magical Bhangra Dance, marked by jaw-dropping acrobatic movements to the rhythmic beat of drums. Women in colourful attire lined with shimmering gold and silver threads only add to the beauty of the festival. |
