Good morning/afternoon everyone,
Respected Principal, teachers, and my dear friends,
Today, I feel honored to speak a few words about one of the most spiritually significant and culturally rich festivals of India — Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab.
Guru Nanak Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Guru and the founder of Sikhism. It is celebrated with great devotion, love, and enthusiasm not just by Sikhs but also by people from different communities across the world.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born on 15th April 1469 in a village called Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi, which is now known as Nankana Sahib, located in present-day Pakistan. However, the celebration of his birth is based on the full moon day (Purnima) of the month of Kartik, according to the lunar calendar, which usually falls in October or November.
Friends, Guru Nanak Dev Ji was not just a religious leader — he was a spiritual teacher, a social reformer, and a visionary. At a time when society was deeply divided by caste, religion, and superstitions, Guru Nanak Dev Ji spread the message of equality, unity, peace, and love.
His teachings were simple yet powerful. He emphasized the concept of “Ik Onkar”, meaning “There is One God.” He believed that God is formless, all-pervading, and present in everyone. He taught us that all human beings are equal, regardless of their religion, caste, gender, or background.
One of his most important teachings was the principle of “Naam Japna, Kirat Karni, and Vand Chakna.”
- Naam Japna means remembering and meditating on God’s name.
- Kirat Karni means earning an honest living through hard work.
- Vand Chakna means sharing with others, especially the needy.
Even today, these three pillars are the foundation of Sikh life and values.
Now let’s talk about how this day is celebrated. The celebrations usually begin two days prior to the actual Gurpurab with the Akhand Path, a 48-hour uninterrupted reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikhs. A Nagar Kirtan, or procession, is carried out with singing of hymns, display of martial arts by Sikh warriors called “Nihangs,” and beautiful decorations of the streets.
On the day of Guru Nanak Jayanti, Gurdwaras are beautifully lit and decorated. Devotees gather in large numbers to listen to Kirtans (devotional songs), and Langar — a free community kitchen — is organized, where everyone is welcome to sit together and eat, regardless of status or religion. This symbolizes the message of equality and selfless service.
Dear friends, Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s life was a message in itself. He traveled extensively, covering thousands of kilometers across Asia, spreading the message of peace and brotherhood. Wherever he went, he encouraged people to rise above discrimination, to serve humanity, and to lead a truthful life.
His words and actions continue to inspire millions around the world even today. At a time when we often see the world divided by differences, the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji remind us of the power of unity, compassion, and humility.
Let us not limit this day to celebration alone. Let’s take a moment to reflect on his teachings and try to incorporate them into our lives. Let us be kind, honest, hardworking, and respectful to all. That will be the true tribute to this great soul.
In conclusion, I would like to say:
“Nanak Naam Chardi Kala, Tere Bhane Sarbat Da Bhala”
This means: With the name of Nanak, may there be ever-rising spirits, and may everyone in the world prosper.
Thank you, and Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh!