Chandigarh, December 13- Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini on Saturday formally inaugurated the ground floor of Panchnad Sadan, constructed by the Panchnad Sewa Trust in Fatehabad. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the occasion marked not merely the inauguration of a building, but stood as a symbol of collective memory, an unbroken cultural legacy and a heartfelt tribute to lakhs of people who made supreme sacrifices for the nation.
Congratulating citizens, trust office-bearers and volunteers on the historic occasion, the Chief Minister announced a grant of Rs. 31 lakh for the Panchnad Sewa Trust. Cabinet Minister, Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi, and Hansi MLA, Sh. Vinod Bhayana was also present at the event.
Recalling the journey of the project, the Chief Minister said the foundation stone of Panchnad Sadan was laid on December 13, 2020, by the then Chief Minister and present Union Minister, Sh Manohar Lal. Within five years, the structure has taken the shape of a grand and inspiring institution, reflecting the dedication, commitment and tireless efforts of the trust’s office-bearers and volunteers. He said every individual associated with the completion of this project deserves appreciation.
Explaining the historical significance of Panchnad, the Chief Minister said the term holds a special place in the collective consciousness of people. Panchnad refers to the land of five rivers—Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Chenab and Jhelum—which nourished this region for centuries and helped create one of the world’s oldest, richest and most vibrant civilisations. Over time, this region came to be known as Punjab, literally meaning the land of five waters.
He said the Panchnad region has historically been a cradle of multiple faiths and cultures, all of which flourished together in harmony. Its traditions of brotherhood, hospitality and hard work gained global recognition. However, history also carries chapters of immense pain and suffering.
Referring to the Partition of 1947, the Chief Minister said this very land witnessed one of the most horrific human tragedies in world history. In a single night, lakhs lost their lives, homes, property and future. A civilisation and culture were brutally torn apart. He said the purpose of Panchnad Sadan is to preserve this history so that future generations never forget the tragedy of Partition and understand the enduring importance of national unity.
He said that the Punjabi community bore immense suffering during Partition, with crores of people forced to migrate across newly drawn borders. Lakhs were killed and countless families were devastated, affecting children, the elderly, women and youth alike. Despite this, the Punjabi society rejected hatred and violence, and instead chose hard work, patriotism and brotherhood, contributing significantly to nation-building.
The Chief Minister emphasised that Panchnad is not a caste, but a culture and a movement. Wherever the Punjabi community has settled, it has blended seamlessly and played a vital role in economic, social and cultural development. Today, Punjabis are known across the country for their diligence, honesty and dedication.
The Chief Minister appreciated the efforts of the Panchnad Smarak Trust and said that since its inception, the trust has undertaken organised, sensitive and heartfelt initiatives to keep the memories of ancestors alive. He said Panchnad Sadan is not merely a structure of bricks and mortar, but a centre that will connect hearts, provide solace to souls and empower the future by learning from history. The initiative, he added, goes beyond remembrance and seeks to transform the pain of Partition into positive energy through education, health and cultural engagement.
Assuring full support, the Chief Minister said the Haryana government will stand shoulder to shoulder with the Panchnad Sewa Trust in preserving and promoting Panchnad culture and in passing on the history of Partition to future generations. He expressed confidence that Panchnad Sadan would emerge as a source of inspiration not only for Haryana but for the entire country, strengthening national unity, social harmony and cultural heritage.
Rajya Sabha, MP Sh. Subhash Barala, former MP, Smt. Sunita Duggal and former MLA, Sh. Dura Ram also addressed the gathering.
Panchnad Sewa Trust patron Bhimsen and several other dignitaries remained present during the event.
