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Dibrugarh Sikh community observes Shaheedi Diwas with Chabeel & prayers

Dibrugarh Sikh community observes Shaheedi Diwas with Chabeel & prayers

Time of India30-05-2025
Dibrugarh: Sikh community in Dibrugarh observed Shaheedi Diwas, the martyrdom day of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, with prayers and the traditional distribution of Chabeel (a sweetened cold drink) at the historic Shri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara on AT Road.
Hundreds of devotees participated in the commemoration, honouring the supreme sacrifice of the fifth Sikh Guru.
Guru Arjan Dev Ji was tortured to death on the orders of Mughal emperor Jahangir on June 16, 1606, for refusing to convert to Islam. His unwavering faith and sacrifice are remembered through devotional prayers and the centuries-old tradition of serving Chabeel — symbolising his suffering under the scorching sun during his torture.
Sardar Gurdev Singh, president of the Shri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara committee, said, "Guru Arjan Dev Ji's martyrdom teaches us patience, sacrifice, and steadfastness in faith. By distributing Chabeel, we not only honour his suffering but also spread the message of selfless service, just as Guru Ji devoted himself to humanity."
Throughout the day, the Gurdwara witnessed a steady stream of devotees attending Akhand Path (continuous scripture reading) and Ardas (prayers) in tribute to Guru Arjan Dev Ji.
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Volunteers prepared large quantities of Chabeel — a refreshing drink made with milk, sugar, and rose water — and offered it to pedestrians, bus passengers, and commuters outside the Gurdwara.
"Every year, we serve Chabeel to hundreds of people. This is our way of keeping Guru Ji's teachings alive — serving others with love and humility," said Simmi Kaur, a volunteer.
Guru Arjan Dev Ji (1563-1606) holds a revered place in Sikh history. He compiled the Adi Granth, the first official version of Sikh scriptures, which later became the Guru Granth Sahib. He also laid the foundation for the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar and established the concept of langar (community kitchen), which continues to provide free meals to all.
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