Jammu April 14:(KNS)  Extending Baisakhi greetings to the people in general and the Sikh Sangat in particular, former minister and senior National Conference leader Mr Ajay Kumar Sadhotra today reminds the special significance in the glorious history of Sikhism as on this day in 1699, the Tenth Guru Guru Gobind Singhji founded the Khalsa Panth at the holy city of Sri Anandpur Sahib.

“Our heads will always bow before Guru Gobind Singhji, who laid down his life for the protection of religion and welfare of humanity”, Mr Ajay Sadhotra said while paying obeisance at Gurudwara Guru Shri Teg Bhadur Singh Sahib at Janipur here this morning and prayed for peace and universal brotherhood.

Sadhotra said the establishment of the Khalsa Panth marked the creation of an egalitarian society, with the Gurus preaching the wisdom of love and compassion for mankind, along with universal brotherhood and communal harmony. He said Guru Gobind Singhji preached love, equality and ethics as well as moral code of conduct.

He lauded the valour of the Sikh community and said that they have all along remained in the forefront in service of the nation. Their sacrifices have been a source of inspiration for the generations, he added.

The former minister said Baisakhi and other such festivals are symbols of our pluralistic culture and strengthens the age-old bonds of amity, harmony and brotherhood for which Jammu and Kashmir is known for centuries. This festival also reflecta the composite culture and rich ethos of the country, which is a unique symbol of unity in diversity in the world, he said.

On the occasion, Mr Sadhotra was presented Saropa by the Sangat.

The day was marked with religious fervor and gaiety with the people thronging the Gurdwara since wee hours.

He also interacted with the Sangat and wished them peace, prosperity and wellbeing.

Others who accompanied Mr. Sadhotra are Rajinder Sharma, Dr. Vikas Sharma, Ankush Abrol, S. Inderpal Singh, Mrs. Satya Jamwal, Mrs Swarn Lata and S. Gurnam Singh.(KNS)