Ropar (Himachal Pradesh): "The release of hostages is a gift of Guru Granth Sahab. It is a re-birth for us," said a visibly relieved brother of Sukhdev Singh, one of three Indian captives set free by Iraqi militants today (Sep 1, 2004).

Harvinder Singh said the celebrations for his brother's release will take place only after Sukhdev returns home.

"We would like to wait for his return as past experience of jubilation had been bitter," he told, referring to reports of their release earlier, which turned out to be incorrect.

"We are happy, the news has come as a gift as part of the countrywide celebrations of the 400th anniversary of the installation of the Guru Granth Sahab," he said.

Harvinder said as a token of celebration today the family would be doing bhangra. Once Sukhdev returns, the family would undertake a pilgrimage on foot to Mata Naina Devi shrine, about 60 kms from Ropar, in Himachal Pradesh.

He said the family, including his mother Pal Kaur, was looking forward to talking to Sukhdev who along with Tilak Raj and Antaryami was set free after 42 days in captivity.

"We thank the Punjab Government, the Centre and villagers who stood by us during the crisis," Harvinder said.