: Tuesday, November 04, 2025 9:28 PM
BhaIf any great man in the spiritual history presented the universal principles of humanity in a simple and practical form, it was Guru Nanak Dev Ji. This great saint of the 15th century spread a revolutionary consciousness against the evils, superstitions and discrimination prevalent in the society of that time. He was not only the founder of Sikhism but also a true guide to humanity who taught that there is “Ek Omkar” – that is, there is only one God who is the creator of all. This year Guru Nanak Jayanti is being celebrated on Wednesday, 5 November 2025. This day is not only a remembrance of his birth but also an opportunity to imbibe his teachings. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib in Pakistan). Since childhood, he had spiritual awareness and curiosity to search for truth. He termed the differences of caste, class, religion and sect as meaningless and said – “There is no Hindu, no Muslim; all human beings are one.” The teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji were not limited to any particular community. He gave this message to every person of the society that the path to reach God is through action, truth and love. In his life, he gave three basic principles – ‘Naam Japo, Kirat Karo, Vand Chhako’, which contain the entire philosophy of life. Chant the name – remembering God and walking on the path of truth. Kirat Karo – To earn a living by working honestly. Wands Chhako – Sharing your income and resources with others. Even today, these principles contain the most practical teachings of social harmony and economic justice.
Another major contribution of Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the tradition of service and langar. Langar was not just a place for food but a symbol of equality, where kings and paupers used to sit and eat in a row. This tradition challenged the caste division of that time. Even today, this tradition in Sikh Gurudwaras makes crores of people experience selfless service and collectivity.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji used to say – “Service should be done without pride, only then it is true service.” This idea is as relevant in today’s selfish society as it was five centuries ago. Guru Nanak Dev Ji also opposed the society’s contemptuous attitude towards women. He said, “So why look weak, the king is born.”
That is, why should a woman who gives birth be called inferior? This statement of hers is the oldest and most powerful declaration of women’s equality in Indian society. Today, when women empowerment is discussed on global platforms, Guru Nanak’s thoughts remind us that true equality does not come from any law, but from attitude.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message was a symbol of religious tolerance and dialogue. He communicated with people of different religions and cultures, traveled to Mecca-Medina, Tibet and Bengal in what are called Udasis. During these travels he made it clear that true religion is service to humanity and not mere performance of worship. He also said – “God is in everyone, no one is big or small.” This idea inspires us to rise above caste, religious and linguistic divisions.
The 21st century society may have become technologically advanced, but mentally and morally it is still struggling with division, hatred and inequality. In this situation the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji are like a guiding light. He considered honesty and hard work as the core of life, which provides a moral direction in today’s era of corruption and ostentation. What he said about equality is the soul of today’s discussion of social justice and human rights. His spirit of service tells us that spiritual satisfaction lies in the welfare of others.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji considered nature to be the creation of God and said – “Wind is Guru, Water is Father, Mother Earth is Mahat.” This verse gives a great message of environmental balance. He taught that only when we respect nature, there is peace in life. Today, when the whole world is going through climate change and ecological crisis, this statement of Guru Nanak becomes more relevant than ever. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s thoughts were not only religious, but also contained the spirit of democracy.
He promoted the tradition of collective decision making and consultation. The idea of Sangat and Pangat among his followers is a symbol of this democratic thinking — where all are equal, no one dominates. The teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji are not for any one time, religion or culture, but are immortal guidance for the entire humanity. When we implement his teachings – truth, compassion, service and equality – in our lives, we not only rise spiritually but also lay the foundation of justice and peace in the society.
Guru Nanak Jayanti reminds us that true devotion to God lies not only in bowing down in a temple, mosque or gurudwara, but in love and respect for every living being. What today’s world needs most is to rekindle the flame of Guru Nanak’s thoughts. His message will always remain immortal –
“Sabna andari aku rabu vartai, sabna ka karta ape soi.”
(God is within everyone, He is the creator of everything.)
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