NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday extended warm greetings to the nation on the occasion of Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti, calling upon people to reflect on the teachings, morals, and wisdom of the first Sikh Guru. The day, also known as Gurpurab, marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and a messenger of peace, equality, and service to humanity.

In a post shared on social media platform X, the Prime Minister wrote, “The life and message of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji continue to guide humanity with timeless wisdom. His teachings of compassion, equality, humility, and service are very inspiring. Greetings on his Parkash Purab. May his divine light keep illuminating our planet forever.”

“Guru Nanak Dev Ji was a Jagat Guru,” says PM Modi

In a video message released on the occasion, Prime Minister Modi elaborated on the global impact of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings. “Guru Nanak Dev Ji was not only the first Guru of the Sikhs but also a world leader—Jagat Guru. He thought about the welfare of humanity and treated all castes with equality,” he said.

Highlighting the Guru’s worldwide influence, he added, “From Vancouver to Wellington and from Singapore to South Africa, his light is notably witnessed by the entire world. His messages echo in every corner of the world. He placed the nation above all else and united India. Guru Nanak Dev Ji awakened the consciousness of the entire nation and led people from darkness to light.”

President Murmu calls for adopting Guru Nanak’s ideals

President Droupadi Murmu also extended her greetings on the auspicious occasion. In a message posted on X, she wrote, “On the auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti, I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to all Indians living in India and abroad, especially our Sikh brothers and sisters.”

She further emphasised the relevance of the Guru’s teachings in modern times. “This occasion inspires us to adopt the ideals and values of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and guides us towards building a better society. His message teaches us that living a life based on truth, justice, and compassion is the true measure of success. His teachings emphasise one God and human equality,” she said.

The President also urged citizens to live honestly, share resources, and follow the Guru’s path to create a more peaceful and prosperous nation.

Leaders and devotees mark the occasion

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also conveyed her greetings. In her post, she wrote, “Naam Japo, Kirat Karo, Wand Chhako… Lakh Lakh Vadhaiyan to all on the Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Let us, by acting upon the golden message of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji—of the welfare of all humanity, earning through honest labour, equality, and selfless service—illuminate our own lives and those of others.”

Across the country, devotees observed the day with deep devotion and joy. In Amritsar, thousands of devotees took holy dips in the Amrit Sarovar at the Golden Temple and offered prayers at Sri Harmandir Sahib. In Delhi and Mumbai, gurdwaras witnessed large gatherings, with devotees participating in kirtans and langar sewa (community kitchens) in keeping with Guru Nanak’s message of equality and service.

The significance of Gurpurab

Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is celebrated across the world with spiritual fervour. The day commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first of the ten Sikh Gurus, who was born in 1469 in present-day Nankana Sahib, Pakistan.

The celebration is marked by prayers, processions, devotional singing, and acts of charity. The teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji—Naam Japo (meditate on God’s name), Kirat Karo (earn an honest living), and Wand Chhako (share with others)—remain the guiding principles for millions.

His philosophy of equality, humility, and devotion continues to inspire not just Sikhs but people across faiths and cultures around the globe.

Conclusion

As India and the global Sikh community celebrate the sacred Prakash Purab, leaders urged citizens to draw inspiration from Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s timeless wisdom. His universal message of peace, service, and equality continues to illuminate lives and strengthen the moral fabric of society.