A historic Prakash Ceremony was held at Lahore Museum, where Mahinder Pal Singh and the Sikh community of Pakistan presented a sacred palki to the Lahore Museum. The event was attended by notable guests, including Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs, Ramesh Singh Arora, who was the Chief Guest.
Other distinguished attendees included Secretary of Tourism and Archaeology Fareed Ahmed Tarar, members of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (PSGPC), Sikh Granthis and Head Granthis, various Sikh communities from across Punjab, and representatives of the Pakistan Sikh Students Federation.
In his speech, Provincial Minister Ramesh Singh Arora praised the ongoing efforts to preserve the sacred traditions of the Sikh community. He emphasized the importance of the presence of the sacred palanquin in highlighting the significance of efforts to protect and promote Sikh culture and heritage. He remarked that the donation of the palki holds great historical importance. The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting Pakistan’s cultural and religious diversity and expressed gratitude to the Sikh community.
The Minister also specially acknowledged the contributions of Aliza Rizvi, in-charge of the Sikh Gallery at the Museum, highlighting her crucial role in transforming the Sikh Gallery into a vibrant and high-quality cultural center. “Undoubtedly, Aliza Rizvi and Secretary Archeology Nabila Irfan has played a key role in making the Sikh Gallery a place of devotion and knowledge,” said Arora, Thier efforts to preserve Sikh heritage are commendable.”
Dr. Mampal Singh, a member of PSGPC, stated that the sacred palki, which holds immense religious and historical significance in Sikhism, will now be available for public display at the Sikh Gallery of the Lahore Museum. This palki, traditionally used to carry the Guru Granth Sahib, holds a special place in the hearts of Sikhs worldwide.
Secretary of Tourism and Archaeology Fareed Ahmed Tarar also addressed the gathering, praising the Sikh community’s efforts to preserve their religious heritage. He assured the audience that the government would continue to fully support such initiatives.
Other speakers also shared their thoughts, emphasizing how this event further strengthens Lahore Museum’s commitment to showcasing and preserving Pakistan’s diverse cultural heritage. The inclusion of the palki will enhance the Sikh Gallery as a center for historical and religious education.
The Prakash ceremony concluded with prayers and blessings, where the Sikh community and their Granthis expressed joy and gratitude. The event was attended by Sikh devotees from across Punjab, highlighting the deep connections between Sikhism and the land of Punjab.
