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Neeraj Bagga
Tribune News Service
Amritsar, October 6
Amid the recitation of Gurbani, new gates were installed at the Darshani Deori, an arch before the causeway to the sanctum sanctorum of the Golden Temple, here on Saturday.
Golden Temple's head priest Giani Jagtar Singh performed the ardas.
Earlier, a Gurmat programme was held in front of the Akal Takht in which Hazuri Raagi performed Gurbani Kirtan.
SGPC chief Gobind Singh Longowal commended Baba Kashmir Singh of Karsewa Bhuriwale and Baba Sukhwinder Singh for exactly replicating the doors installed by legendary Sikh ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh about 200 years ago.
He assured that the Shiromani committee would steadfastly maintain the original doors and showcase to the visiting sangat.
Longowal said Sheesham wood was used in preparing the doors which were covered with 60 kg silver foil on a side and seashell on another.
Natural effects like trees, vines and birds were engraved on doors. Skilled artisans from Agra and the holy city were roped in to roll out desired designs. These doors are 118-inch high and 110-inch wide.
Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Gurbachan Singh and other Sikh religious personalities apart from a large number of devouts were present on the occasion.
The original doors having sandalwood base with the ivory carving and golden screws, were unhooked for preservation in 2010. The wood was beyond repair and the government had already banned on ivory trade. So seashells were replaced to give the desired effect.
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