Nation remembers Guru Nanak Dev Ji on Gurpurab, leaders recall his teachings

“Jo Bole So Nihal… Sat Sri Akal!”, Blessed is the one who speaks these words; True and Eternal is the Timeless One.

The sacred greeting echoed across gurudwaras and homes today as devotees celebrated Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti, remembering the founder of Sikhism and his message of equality, compassion and selfless service. The day was marked with prayers, kirtan and langar, reflecting the Guru’s enduring guidance on living with humility and serving humanity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a message on X, said Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings continue to offer timeless wisdom to humanity, rooted in compassion, equality, humility and service. In a video message, he described the Guru as a “Jagat Guru” who rose above all divisions and awakened the moral consciousness of society.

President Droupadi Murmu also greeted the nation, stating that Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message encourages society to follow the path of truth, justice and harmony. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar said the Guru’s call for universal brotherhood and dignity for all remains deeply relevant.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann extended heartfelt wishes, calling Guru Nanak Dev Ji the “voice of equality and hope” for generations. He urged people to honour the Guru’s teachings through seva (service), humility and compassion in everyday life. He said Punjab remains deeply connected to the Guru’s legacy, not only geographically, but spiritually.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, in her greeting on X, recalled the central principles of Sikh life, remembrance of God, honest livelihood and sharing with others. She said these values are especially significant today, as society seeks empathy and unity.

Born in 1469 at Nankana Sahib, now in Pakistan, Guru Nanak Dev Ji lived in a time of social inequality and religious barriers. His teachings challenged discrimination and reaffirmed that all human beings are equal in the eyes of one Creator. Through his travels, known as Udasis, across India and beyond, he carried a message that emphasized oneness, compassion and truth.

His core principles continue to guide millions across the world:

• Ik Onkar - One Supreme Divine reality

• Naam Japo - Remember the Creator

• Kirat Karo - Earn through honest means

• Wand Chhako - Share and serve humanity

Across the country, devotees gathered at dawn in Amritsar to take the holy dip at the Amrit Sarovar and offer prayers at Sri Harmandir Sahib. Langar, the tradition of free community meals, continued throughout the day in gurudwaras in Punjab, Delhi, Mumbai and across the world. Sikh communities globally, from Canada to the UK and Australia to Malaysia, also marked the day with devotion and service.

More greetings from leaders and public figures are expected through the day.

This report will be updated as additional statements are released.

Gist: The nation observed Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti with devotion and seva, remembering the Guru’s enduring message of equality, compassion and truthful living.