Chandigarh: The management of Akal College Council and representatives of various Sikh jathas have jointly announced that the 99th annual remembrance of Sant Atar Singh Ji Mastuana Sahib will continue to be observed in a manner fully in line with Sikh traditions.

Every year, a large number of devotees attend these samagams, including prominent scholars, preachers, personalities, who honor Sant Atar Singh Ji’s contributions to the Guru Khalsa Panth. These gatherings bring together Sangat (community members) from far and wide on the land of Malwa.

In past decades, these samagams had gradually become more like fairs, sometimes accompanied by noise, distractions, and minor incidents. Over the past two years, local villagers, Sikh jathas, and event organizers have worked together to ensure the atmosphere remains respectful and in accordance with Sikh principles. Measures taken include limiting loudspeakers, stopping unrelated shops and rides, and keeping the focus on Gurmat related activities. These decisions have been implemented collectively and have been appreciated by visiting devotees.

Jaswant Singh Khaira, Secretary of Akal College Council, along with Bhai Malkeet Singh Bhawanigarh (Sikh Jatha Malwa), Bhai Harjinder Singh Majhi (Darbar-e-Khalsa), and Sikh lawyer Jagmeet Singh, said these measures will continue this year. Event organizers will maintain these standards in future samagams as well.

The committee also discussed the need for all large gatherings under the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee to follow Sikh traditions. Khaira added that next year, during the centenary (100th year) of Sant Atar Singh Ji Mastuana Sahib, the series of samagams will continue with a focus on key issues, including the appointment of Jathedars and other important matters related to the Guru Khalsa Panth.