SRINAGAR: The All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) has extended warm greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and across the world on the occasion of the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism.
The APSCC leaders, including Navtej Singh, Sandeep Singh, Engg. Jatinder Singh, D.P. Singh, Principal Naranjan Singh, Ajeet Singh Mastana, Sant Singh, Dr. Jaipal Singh Bali, and Davinder Singh, have expressed their heartfelt wishes, hoping that this festive occasion of Gurpurab brings peace, harmony, and happiness to the world.
In a statement, APSCC Chairman Jagmohan Singh Raina emphasized the importance of following the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, highlighting the profound message of love, peace, and unity that he spread during his lifetime. Chairman Raina urged the people to embrace these values, stating that true peace can only be attained by adhering to the path laid out by the revered Guru.
“Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message of universal brotherhood, equality, and love is as relevant today as it was centuries ago,” Raina said. “It is essential that we internalize his teachings to create a society based on peace and mutual respect.”
Raina also reminded the public of Kashmir’s special historical connection with Guru Nanak Dev Ji, recalling the Guru’s visit to the region in 1518 AD. During this visit, Guru Nanak Ji traveled through Kashmir and Leh-Ladakh, leaving an indelible mark on the valley. Testimonies and artifacts from the era, including revered Gurdwaras in Leh, Bijbehara, Ramnagar, and other parts of the Union Territory, bear testament to his profound influence.
Guru Nanak Ji’s time in Kashmir is especially notable for his interactions with local spiritual leaders, including Pandit Brahm Das, who was so inspired by the Guru’s teachings that he embraced Sikhism, marking the beginning of the Sikh faith in the region. The Guru’s companionship with Bala, a Hindu, and Mardana, a Muslim, underscored his message of universal brotherhood and secularism.
Among the historical artifacts preserved in the region is the ‘rabaab’—a musical instrument always carried by Mardana, the Guru’s Muslim companion. This instrument is now carefully preserved at Shernangla in Ramnagar, Jammu.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message also addressed the injustices of the caste system and societal suppression. He traveled extensively on foot, covering thousands of miles, to preach a message of humanity, equality, and love. His teachings deeply influenced the people of Basoli, and are reflected in the Pahari and miniature paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries, many of which can be found in libraries worldwide.