Chandigarh February 15, 2024
A three day Conference entitled “Concept of Martyrdom in Sikhism” dedicated to unique martyrdom of Sahibzades; was organized by the Department of Guru Nanak Sikh Studies, PU Chandigarh and Virasat Punjab Manch (a Platform of various thinkers, scholars and academicians). In the inaugural session, all the signatories and dignitaries was welcomed by the host, Prof. Jodh Singh Chief Virasat Punjab Munch.
Conference was initiated with the blessing of Baba Seva Singh, Padam Shri Awardee and head, Nishan-e-Sikhi, Khadur Sahib.
Chief Guest was S. Gurpreet Singh Khudian, member SGPC, Amritsar along with Dr. Charan Singh, Chairman Punjab & Sind Bank and S. Mota Singh Sarai from U.K.
In his inaugural address, Prof. Renu Vig Vice-Chancellor P.U. Chandigarh said that martyrdom in Sikhism has its unique value. Sikhism has its long journey and legacy of martyrdom. Sikh martyrdom is for others. She urges that we must follow the spirit of martyrdom in our daily life through eradication of poverty and injustice from the society.
In his main address, Prof. Gurinder Singh Mann, a renowned scholar from USA Said martyrdom in Sikhism has a unique place. He gave many references from history and philosophy. He also urged the young generation to take responsibility of development of Sikh legacy and traditions. He laid stress to adopt the Punjabi as a medium of research.
In his presidential address, Prof. Jaspal Singh, ex-Vice Chancellor Punjabi University Patiala said that martyrdom is not a physical death but a spiritual sublimation toward the ultimate. Martyrdom in Sikhism is Guru Centric and human centric. Martyrdom is symbolic and metaphysical that leads us towards the welfare of the Globe and Humanity.
Various Personalities from the different field were conferred in the conference. These are Prof. Anirudh Joshi, Prof. Tara Singh Kamal, Ranjodh Singh, Jasmer Singh, Prof. Devinder Singh and Babbu Tir.
At the end of the inaugural session Prof. Gurpal Singh, Academic Head of Guru Nanak Sikh Studies, PU gave a vote of thanks.
In two parallel sessions, many research scholars, teachers students presented their papers dedicated to multidisciplinary in nature. The session was concluded by 5 pm evening. A very musical session will be organise on 16th February 2024 at 6:00 PM onwards. Sufi Singer Kanwar Grewal will present his Sufi Qalam.
