Sikhs seek tracks of faith, not just festival specials
Indian Railways
is reportedly conducting a feasibility study to connect the five Sikh Takhts—a move that could ease travel, reduce journey time, and allow devotees to visit at their convenience to fulfil their religious aspirations, as the current connectivity makes each journey difficult and full of inconveniences.
'The Five Takhts are the seats of Sikh power, history, and spiritual authority, but there is no direct connection between them,' said Sikh politico-religious observer S. Parshotam. . He said travel from Amritsar to Patna, Bathinda to Nanded, or Anandpur Sahib to Takht Damdama Sahib is a test of endurance—detours, delays, poor waiting facilities, and multiple connecting trains. "There is no straight route and no guaranteed service", added he.
Notably, Sikhs across India and abroad want to visit all five Takhts—not once in a lifetime, but when they choose. They wish to pay obeisance, fulfil religious duties, and stay rooted in the legacy of their Gurus, but the system doesn't allow it easily.
Stating that the Railways currently runs special trains only during major festivals or events—such as Gurpurabs and anniversaries—but this service is neither regular, reliable, nor sufficient, railway affairs expert P.C.
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Sharma informed that a feasibility study is underway to establish city-to-city links, aimed at shortening travel time and increasing comfort. 'But plans don't carry passengers. Proposals don't reduce fatigue.
It has to translate on the ground,' he said.
A railways official here who didn't wish to give his name said, 'The extension of the Mumbai-Jalna Vande Bharat Express to Nanded represents a landmark achievement in improving connectivity to Takht Sri Hazur Sahib.
The Delhi-Amritsar Vande Bharat Express has revolutionised connectivity to the Golden Temple and Akal Takht, providing high-speed rail service that connects the national capital with Punjab's spiritual heart.
This service enables devotees from Delhi and Northern India to visit Amritsar with unprecedented comfort and efficiency.'
'What Sikhs are asking is simple. A regular rail service that links the five Takhts. Not luxury. Not tourism. Just respect for religious practice. Just a route that makes sense,' said Purshotam adding that despite an ongoing feasibility study , its report is yet to come.
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