Haryana Chief Minister, Nayab Singh Saini said that both the Central and State Governments are continuously working to take the principles and teachings of the Sikh Gurus to every section of society. He said these efforts are further strengthening the preservation and promotion of the Guru tradition and the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The Chief Minister was addressing a gathering as Chief Guest at the state-level Baisakhi Mahotsav 2026, organized by the Art and Cultural Affairs Department in collaboration with the district administration at KDB Mela Ground, Kurukshetra on Monday.
Extending greetings on the auspicious occasion of Baisakhi, the Chief Minister paid obeisance to the revered Gurus on the foundation day of the Khalsa Panth. On the occasion, the Chief Minister and Gita Manishi Swami Gyananand Maharaj, were presented with a kirpan, siropa by the Sikh Sangat as a token of respect.
Later, the Chief Minister inaugurated an exhibition based on Sikh history as well as the achievements and schemes of the State Government. He also flagged off wrestling competitions for men and women and inaugurated the international kite competition by flying a kite. He further inspected the Haryana Heritage Pavilion showcasing the rich Haryanvi culture.
Highlighting the significance of the festival, the Chief Minister said that Baisakhi symbolizes prosperity, respect for labour and harmony with nature. He expressed happiness at being present on the sacred land of Kurukshetra, known as the land of Dharma and Karma, and said that the festival inspires people to remain connected with nature and celebrate the joy of a bountiful harvest.The Chief Minister said that India is progressing towards a new era under the leadership of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi and is moving rapidly towards the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047.
He emphasized that the teachings of the Sikh Gurus—unity, dedication, service and hard work—must be adopted in daily life to build an inclusive society where all citizens have equal opportunities, there is no discrimination and every individual can live with dignity. He added that development must go hand in hand with staying connected to our roots, preserving culture and acquainting future generations with the nation’s glorious history.
Recalling the historical importance of the day, he said that on this day in 1699, at Sri Anandpur Sahib, the Tenth Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, established the Khalsa Panth at a time when injustice and oppression were at their peak, giving a new direction to society based on courage, equality, self-respect and patriotism.
He added that the selection of the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones) from different castes and religions conveyed a powerful message of social equality and brotherhood, reinforcing that unity in diversity is the nation’s greatest strength.
The Chief Minister also recalled the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of April 13, 1919, stating that the brutal killing of innocent people by the British marked a painful chapter in India’s history. He said the sacrifice of the martyrs gave new momentum to the freedom struggle and strengthened the spirit of independence among the people.
Train to Depart for Sri Hazur Sahib, Nanded, Maharashtra on May 5
The Chief Minister informed that under the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana, a special train will depart from Kurukshetra on May 5 to facilitate devotees’ visit to Sri Hazur Sahib, Nanded, Maharashtra. He added that earlier, on March 28, a train carrying more than 700 devotees was flagged off from Ambala for darshan of Ayodhya Dham.
Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee Formed in December 2022
Reiterating the State Government’s commitment to the welfare of the Sikh community, the Chief Minister said that the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee was constituted in December 2022, fulfilling a long-pending demand and ensuring greater autonomy for the community in the state.
He further said that the State Government has celebrated the 550th Prakash Parv of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the 350th Prakash Parv of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the 400th Prakash Parv of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur ji at the state level in a grand manner. He added that in November last, several programmes were organized across the state to mark the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
A state-level function was also organized at Jyotisar on November 25 in the presence of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, which was attended by Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, who released commemorative coins, a postage stamp and a coffee table book dedicated to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Jobs provided to 1984 riot-affected families
The Chief Minister said that the State Government has made a provision to provide employment to one member each of 121 families who lost their kin during the 1984 riots. He added that appointment letters were distributed by Union Home Minister, Sh. Amit Shah during a programme held in Panchkula on December 24 on the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas.
He further informed that a forest is being developed in the name of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Kalesar in Yamunanagar district, along with the construction of a memorial gate in his honour. An agricultural college has also been announced in his name at Kishanpura in Yamunanagar.
Additionally, Government Polytechnic College, Ambala has been renamed after Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the Tohana–Jind–Dhamtan Sahib road has been named Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Marg, and the upcoming medical college in Yamunanagar will also be named after him.
Rs. 124 Crore Tender Issued for Sikh Museum in Kurukshetra
The Chief Minister said that a Sikh Museum will soon be developed in Umri, Kurukshetra, which will showcase Sikh history, culture and the contributions of the Gurus. The museum will be constructed on five acres of land provided by the Kurukshetra Development Board.
He informed that a tender worth Rs. 124 crore has already been issued by the Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran and work on the project will commence shortly.Speaking on the occasion, Gita Manishi Swami Gyananand Maharaj said that Baisakhi represents a celebration of glorious heritage, seasonal change and the message of Khalsa discipline.
He added that the Chief Minister’s vision and resolve are emerging as a source of inspiration for society. He also highlighted that Kurukshetra has witnessed the successful organization of International Gita Jayanti, with participation of more than 40 lakh people.
Former Minister of State Sh. Subhash Sudha, OSD to Chief Minister Dr. Prabhleen Singh, Chairman Dharamvir Dagar and Dharamvir Mirzapur, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.