EXHIBITING EGOTISM
Gurdwara Sach Khand Mastuana Sangrur
A Gurdwara is nearing completion near Sangrur at place called Mastuana. Some Sikhs have objected its construction as it is replica of Harmandar Saheb Amritsar. They feel that any imitation of the Holy Golden Temple should not be allowed as it lowers the dignity of the Holy shrine of the Sikhs. Irony is that it was under construction since last about 22 years. During this time many prominent Sikh personalities and Jathedars had been visiting the site. No one worth a name in Sikhism can claim that he was not aware of this development. On the other hand some are busy frantically in searching reasons like its direction and other minute details which do not match with Harmandar Saheb. Those who are opposing the construction, they seem to be devoted less to religion than politics. And those who are in favor are looking forward in future when lots of donations in millions, will start pouring in when the Gurdwara is open to public. Even during construction devotees continue to offer donations at the feet of Kar Seva Babas who are supervising the construction. Of course it can be imagined that when Gurdwara comes in its real form, what will happen as the local people and public from far off places will come to pay obeisance with devotion and faith as it will look like Harmandar Saheb. That reason is enough for those who wish to visit the most sacred place of Sikhs in the world.
It is a pertinent question as to from where the billions of rupees had come for construction of this Gurdwara which will go down the drain if those who oppose it are successful in getting it demolished or altered/modified? No one thought of putting those funds for running a college, school or hospital earlier? Even the roads which are in dilapidated condition linking various Gurdwaras in Punjab or other parts of country could be repaired so that devotees can travel in comfort.
Billions have been spent on this construction for which people of Punjab in general and Sikhs societies in particular are not in agreement. Some wish to keep it as it is, some want to demolish. As usual the Akal Takhat had called a meeting of prominent Jathedars and Sikh scholars to discuss the matter. The news is that it is decided by Akal Takhat that the Sarovar (pond) be filled up so that there is no pond like Harmandar Saheb and the bridge (like the one at Harmandar Saheb Complex from Darshani deodhi to Sanctum Sanctorum) of replica Gurdwara be demolished, so that the look of this Gurdwara will not match with The Holi Harmandar Saheb. Some domes probably will also be removed.
Will such confused approach benefit people of Punjab or Sikhs in particular?
The answer can be only no. It could benefit the public or less educated Sikhs if the philosophy of Guru Granth Saheb was properly interpreted and explained to them through Dharm Parchar (religious propaganda). Actually what is being asked from those who are responsible to spread the message of the Gurus is, that series of 101 Akhand Paaths be started? Through this the donations will continue to flow and will benefit the organizers.
The new trend of selling Akhand Paaths is on the increase in almost all the Gurdwaras. This is similar to Brahminical rituals like reciting Shalokas, the path is continuously recited without interpretation of Gurbani. Further Sikhs from west, other countries of the world and with in India, book the Akhand Path in advance to give solace to the devotee who booked the Akhand Paath dreaming of heaven. Babas of Deras and SGPC are over busy in developing this trend which results in accumulating money at a faster pace. Devotees come with high priced Chandoa (canopy) offering the same with lots of faith. Surprisingly the same goes back to market to be purchased by some one else next day to offer the same.
Recently the news was rife that a minister of south Indian state offered a crown studded with diamonds worth billions in popular Temple of south India. Similarly when cleansing of Sarovar of Harmandar Saheb is to be started five beloved ones who are generally prominent Jathedars they dig the sludge with spades and troughs made of gold. One of spades was stolen in the past. It is not yet known whether it was found or not. Thinking of olden times when Guru Arjan Dev ji had invited to lay the foundation stone of Golden Temple was it possible that he might have given him golden spade for that ceremony? Till such time it was simple Hari Mandar, people had true devotion. But since the gold plates were put on and around, it is better known as Golden temple. Various scandals started coming out.
We all know that why Guru Nanak used to go and live with Bhai Lao in his hut and eat millet like food rejecting delicious meals of Malik Bhago. Every Sikh needs to introspect and think that how he can change with in, to get rid of such egotism and Maya.
O Nanak, what has happened to the world?
There is no guide or friend.
There is no love, even among brothers and relatives.
For the sake of the world, people have lost their faith.
