Sri Guru Granth Sahib World University here, managed by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), on Saturday celebrated the 314th anniversary of the creation of Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh.
University vice-chancellor Gurmohan Singh Walia highlighted on the occasion that Guru Gobind Singh had 52 poets of different religions, culture and regions in his court. “Continuing the tradition, the university has organised poetry-recitation and Kavishari (devotional poetry) competitions,” he said.
The contestants weaved the life story and teachings of Guru Gobind Singh in their presentations that also educated the listeners about the history of the creation of Khalsa. “By creating Khalsa, Guru Gobind Singh gave the downtrodden the courage to stand up to the tyranny of Mughal rulers,” said the V-C. Citing the examples of the Guru's younger Sahibzadas (sons) and great Sikh warriors such as Baba Deep Singh and Baba Banda Singh Bahadur, he encouraged students to be connected with their rich heritage.
Vice-chancellor Walia shared with the gathering that the SGPC had given away 100 acres to the university to add to its campus space. “The university has reserved 10% (5% for Sikhs and rest for others) seats for students from poor families, who will get free-of-cost education at the institution,” he added.
{{/usCountry}}Vice-chancellor Walia shared with the gathering that the SGPC had given away 100 acres to the university to add to its campus space. “The university has reserved 10% (5% for Sikhs and rest for others) seats for students from poor families, who will get free-of-cost education at the institution,” he added.
{{/usCountry}}The university also organised a Dastar Bandi (turban-tying) competition. A team from Ranjit Akhara (Nihang Singha), Patiala, and another from the university demonstrated Sikh martial art gatka. Kanwaljeet Singh, dean of academic affairs; registrar Pritpal Singh, and members of the university staff were present.