- Nagar Kirtan (Punjabi: ਨਗਰ ਕੀਰਤਨ) is a Sikh custom involving the processional singing of holy hymns throughout a community.[1] While practiced at any time, it is customary in the month of Visakhi (or Vaisakhi). Traditionally, the procession is led by the saffron-robed Panj Piare (the five beloved of the Guru), who are followed by the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy Sikh scripture, which is placed on a float.[2] Commonly, members of the procession are unshod in deference to the scripture so displayed. Likewise, many cover their heads and don the colour saffron or orange. The road before the procession is cleared by Sewadars. Bystanders bow their heads to the scripture. Food may be provided them from floats that follow the Scripture or from stationary points in the vicinity of the procession.[3] The procession concludes at the Gurudwara with Ardas (pray).[4]
The deadline given by the Haryana police to controversial 'godman' Rampal to surrender and his followers to vacate his ashram has ended. Police said that water and electricity connection to the ashram have been cut off. TV reports on Wednesday morning said that Rampal’s supporters were using women and children inside the ashram as human shields. Armed devotees on Tuesday tried to hold off the police, attacking them with acid pouches, sticks and stones. Petrol bombs were also allegedly also thrown at the police. The police had called off their search till Wednesday saying the ashram is built like a maze with deadly traps set up. Violent clashes broke out at the ashram in Haryana with police lobbing teargas shells and resorting to lathicharge to disperse his supporters who allegedly fired back, leaving over 100 persons, including security and media personnel, injured. Tension mounted as supporters of Rampal refused to heed to repeated announcements by the police over loud speaker
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