The Lambi constituency on Friday resonated with heartfelt tributes and activities as thousands of people gathered to commemorate the 97th birth anniversary of the late five-time Chief Minister and Akali patriarch Parkash Singh Badal. The occasion, observed as Sadbhavana Divas, witnessed a harmonious blend of spiritual, philanthropic, and memorial events, reflecting the revered leader's multifaceted legacy.
The day commenced with a soul-stirring Kirtan Samagam, where devotees immersed themselves in devotional hymns, setting a serene tone for the commemoration. Concurrently, a blood donation camp exemplifying the spirit of service to humanity was inaugurated at the Civil Hospital, Badal. The initiative, part of the Sadbhavana Divas observance, aimed to contribute to the larger cause of social welfare.
A poignant highlight of the day was the unveiling of a life-size statue of senior Badal, symbolizing his enduring presence in the hearts of the people. The statue, crafted by the Chautala family, was inaugurated by Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal, Bathinda MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Punjab’s former finance minister Manpreet Singh Badal, Jannayak Janata Dal (JJP) president Ajay Chautala, and Haryana Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala.
This symbolic gesture united the late leader with his lifelong friend Lok Nayak Ch Devi Lal, epitomizing a bond that transcends generations.
Addressing the gathering, Sukhbir Badal shared his emotions, expressing that the former Chief Minister loved the people of Punjab more than his own family. Describing Badal as an “evergreen tree” providing succor to the entire community, Sukhbir highlighted his father’s qualities — a nationalist, a secular leader, a democrat, humble, punctual, and committed to the welfare of the people.
He pledged to carry forward the legacy, dedicating his life to serving the people with the same zeal and sincerity.
SAD president also acknowledged the Chautala family for their role in reuniting two families, emphasizing the deep-rooted friendship between the Badals and the Chautalas. Alongside the statue inauguration, Sukhbir and Harsimrat led the initiation of a blood donation camp at Civil Hospital, Badal, aligning with the larger Sadbhavana Divas initiative across the State.
The commemorative events extended to the Mata Jaswant Kaur Memorial School in Badal village, where the SAD president and Bathinda MP presided over the Founders Day celebrations. Later in the day, Sukhbir Badal participated in the Founders Day function of the Malwa School in Gidderbaha, reinforcing the commitment to education and community welfare.
As the day unfolded with prayers, acts of kindness, and celebrations, it encapsulated the essence of Sadbhavana Divas – a day dedicated to fostering goodwill, unity, and the enduring legacy of a leader who dedicated his life to the service of the people.
