Since teenage

Ch-02

The dawn of the Nagar Kirtan arrived with a crisp chill in the air, the early morning sun casting a golden glow over Kartarpura. Geet was already awake, her heart brimming with excitement. She dressed carefully in a deep blue salwar kameez, her dupatta lined with silver embroidery that shimmered in the sunlight streaming through her window.

Stepping out of her room, she found her grandmother, Bebbe, waiting by the kitchen, holding a tray of sweets wrapped in muslin cloth.

"Geet, aa le mithaiyan langar layi,” Bebbe handed her the sweets with a fond smile.
("Geet, take these sweets for the langar.")

“Yes, Bebbe! I’ll take them,” Geet replied, carefully cradling the tray, a sense of purpose settling over her.

She made her way to the gurudwara where preparations were already in full swing. Colorful banners decorated the entrance, the fragrance of fresh marigold garlands wafting through the air, while volunteers busied themselves setting up the langar hall. The atmosphere was filled with devotion and warmth, and the sound of kirtan resonated, infusing everyone with a sense of peace.

Geet quickly fell into her role, greeting elders, arranging the sweets for the langar, and coordinating with the other volunteers. This year, Bebbe had given her a unique responsibility—managing the floral arrangements for the procession. It was a simple task, yet significant, and Geet took it to heart.

“Geet, ehna phullan nu vaad di tarah saja,” one of the older ladies advised, pointing at the baskets of fresh flowers waiting to be arranged.
("Geet, decorate these flowers beautifully.")

Geet nodded with a smile. “Ji aunty, main sambhal laangi,” she assured, rolling up her sleeves.
("Yes, aunty, I’ll take care of it.")

As she began arranging the flowers into garlands, Bebbe approached her, nodding with approval.

“Eh tan changa kam hai, Geet. Saadi Guru di seva,” Bebbe said with a proud smile.
("This is good work, Geet. Service to our Guru.")

Geet glanced up at her grandmother, her eyes reflecting a deep gratitude. "Ji Bebbe, main poori koshish karungi,” she replied earnestly.
("Yes, Bebbe, I will do my very best.")

The time for the Nagar Kirtan drew near, and the village began to gather around the gurudwara. The atmosphere was charged with a festive energy—children running around with flags, women dressed in colorful suits and scarves, and the elderly seated in reverence, waiting for the prayers to begin.

As the procession started, Geet walked alongside the palki sahib, carrying one of the flower garlands she had prepared. The music of the dhol and the rhythm of the chants filled her heart with pride and devotion. She looked back to find Bebbe following behind her, her eyes shining with tears, a look of immense pride on her face.

They reached the central part of the village, where the kirtan continued, and everyone took turns bowing before the palki. Geet felt a surge of fulfillment as she watched the smiles and reverence on the faces of the people gathered, many of whom had known her since childhood.

When the procession reached its end, Geet took a moment to soak in the peace that filled her heart. She caught Bebbe’s gaze, and they exchanged a look of deep understanding.

“Geet, tu saddi virasat nu nibhaya hai aaj,” Bebbe said, pride ringing in her voice.
("Geet, you have honored our heritage today.")

Geet nodded, feeling a warmth spread through her. “Ji Bebbe, aaj main Guru di seva kar pai, bas issi meri kismet hai,” she replied softly.
("Yes, Bebbe, today I was able to serve our Guru, and that is my blessing.")

As they walked back home together, arm in arm, Geet couldn’t help but feel that this day would stay in her heart forever, marking a new chapter in her life, a step into something much larger than herself—a commitment to honor her faith, her family, and the village that had raised her.

__________________________________________

Changa ji ,
Rab rakhan

Next chapter in
10 views and 5 votes