Shimla:

To commemorate the 211th Prakash Parv of Sant Satguru Ram Singh Ji, Nandhari Sangat Mandi has organised a series of religious and social programmes on the auspicious occasion of Basant Panchami in Mandi town.

Addressing media persons here today, Satvinderpal Singh, president of Nandhari Sangat Mandi, said that the celebrations will commence from today evening with the congregation of members and pracharaks of the Nandhari Sangat at the Gurudwara located in School Bazaar, Mandi. Devotees will participate in special prayers and religious discourses highlighting the teachings and ideals of Sant Satguru Ram Singh Ji.

He informed that a Prabhat Feri will be organised on January 23, during which devotees will march through various parts of the town, spreading the message of peace, harmony and spiritual awakening. On January 24, a grand Nagar Kirtan will be taken out in Mandi town, in which a large number of devotees are expected to participate.

As part of the celebrations, a Nasha Mukti Marathon will be organised on January 25 with the objective of spreading awareness against drug abuse among youth. The marathon will be held in two age categories — under 16 years and above 16 years — separately for both male and female participants.

Satvinderpal Singh said that attractive cash prizes will be awarded to the winners to encourage participation. The winners in each category will receive Rs 5,100, while the first and second runners-up will be awarded Rs 3,100 and Rs 2,100 respectively.

He added that the marathon aims to sensitise the youth about the harmful effects of drug abuse and motivate them to stay away from drugs by adopting sports and physical activities for a healthy body and sound mind.