The Hymn of Paradoxical Punjab.....by Khushi Tanganiya ( Main Photo: AI Image )
Humanity stands as the foremost religion in Punjab
Chandigarh: Punjab “The Breadbasket of India” acted as a linchpin to reduce the food crises, especially through the green revolution in 1960's. This state of India has witnessed myriad transformation, from the stage of intense conflict to profound serenity.
Punjab’s history is full with the stories of brave Sikh Gurus and the mighty Sikh empire under Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Whether it’s the teachings of Sikh Guru's that inculcated the values of equality, justice and service or it's the potent speeches of freedom fighters like Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, Shaheed Lala Lajpat Rai etc. which infused the spirit of nationalism among youth, has played a crucial role in inspiring the future generations.
"In recent decades, Punjab has faced the Khalistani conflict, a separatist movement aimed at establishing an independent Sikh state.
Although this movement has largely diminished, its influence continues in some Diaspora communities around the world. For a detailed perspective, you can refer to The PRINT article titled 'Punjab’s Sikhs have 99 problems but Khalistan ain’t one. They’re very proud Indians, but angry.
https://theprint.in/national-interest/punjabs-sikhs-have-99-problems-but-khalistan-aint-one-theyre-very-proud-indians-but-angry/1774174/
Amidst the discourse of demand for a separate nation, international opinions separatist moments and threat to national integrity, 'I' who belongs to "The Devbhoomi Uttarakhand" uncovered “The True Essence of Punjab”.
Transitioning from reel to the real world, where films often show the exaggerated version of the state, the true Punjab is subtle with its essence lying in the simplicity and warmth of the people.
The tradition of 'Shabil' and ‘Langar’ where water and food is provided to the people in the scorching summers is a testament to their boundless generosity.
The true essence of Punjab lies in the fact that, since independence, a significant number of soldiers in the Indian army have hailed from Punjab. The state has played a pivotal role in representing India on the international sports stage, bringing many medals and global recognition to the country.
And finally, yet importantly, the true essence of Punjab is its secular religious sentiments which in my perception is an ever-abiding constant for people of Punjab.
Religious integrity can be illustrated as Sikhs and Hindus visit both Mandirs, Gurudwaras, and Masjids, people of all faiths come together to celebrate festivals like Gurupurab, Eid and Janmashtami. 'Humanity' stands as the foremost religion in Punjab.
Punjab is indeed a paradox, to understand it one must look beyond the stereotypes and scrutinize the tranquility people hold in their hearts for every religion, and whole nation.
November 1, 2024
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Khushi Tanganiya, Ex-Intern, Civil Secretariat Punjab
k.tangariya10@gmail.com
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