79th Sant Nirankari Samagam begins in Samalkha; 10 lakh devotees expected
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
The 79th Sant Nirankari Samagam got underway in Samalkha, Haryana, on 23 October 2026, drawing an estimated 10 lakh devotees to a four-day spiritual congregation that runs through 26 October. The annual gathering, held under the divine presence of Mata Sudiksha Ji Maharaj, is one of the largest spiritual assemblies in India and draws participants from across the country as well as from overseas.
Theme and Spiritual Purpose
This year's central theme is 'Jagriti' (Awakening), centred on the call to awaken humanity and foster love, compassion, and selfless service in daily life. The Samagam seeks to inspire attendees to recognise the deeper purpose of human existence, rise above prejudice, and cultivate bonds of mutual care. Through collective spiritual participation, the mission aims to anchor these values as lived practice rather than abstract ideals.
Massive Infrastructure at the 650-Acre Venue
According to Joginder Sukhija, Secretary of the Sant Nirankari Mission, the event is spread across a 650-acre venue where extensive arrangements have been put in place. Four large community kitchen halls, four cooking areas, and six food distribution zones have been established to feed the large congregation. The site also features 22 toilet blocks, multiple drinking water stations, and a dedicated medical facility.
"To ensure the convenience of the devotees, four large community kitchen halls, four cooking areas, and six food distribution zones have been set up. Additionally, the site includes 22 toilet blocks, numerous drinking water stations, and a medical facility," Sukhija said.
Over 1 Lakh Volunteers Deployed
More than 1 lakh volunteers, referred to as 'sevadars', have been deployed across the venue to manage crowd movement, food service, and general assistance. Sukhija noted that "comprehensive arrangements have been made to manage the movement of devotees, as well as the provision of food, drinking water, and other essential amenities."
Security, Emergency and Medical Support
Special provisions have been made for safety and emergency response. The government has provided 25 ambulances, while the Mission has deployed 10 of its own, including five specialised life-saving ambulances. Additionally, 14 fire tenders have been stationed at various points across the sprawling venue to address any contingency. "The government has provided 25 ambulances. Furthermore, the Mission has deployed 10 of its own ambulances, including five specialised life-saving ambulances. To address any potential emergencies, 14 fire tenders have also been stationed at various points across the venue," Sukhija said.
This is the 79th edition of the Samagam, underscoring the enduring scale and organisational depth of the Sant Nirankari Mission. With participants travelling from across India and abroad, the congregation is expected to remain one of the most significant annual spiritual gatherings in the country. All four days of proceedings will conclude on 26 October 2026.