ITANAGAR, Nov 12 - Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Prakash Utsav or Gurpurab, commemorating the 550th birth anniversary of the first Sikh guru and founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev, was today celebrated at Gurudwara Saheb, Naharlagun, with religious fervour and gaiety.
A large number of devotees from the State capital complex thronged the gurudwara to pay obeisance to the first Sikh guru and the holy book, Guru Granth Sahib.
State Governor Brig (Dr) BD Mishra (retd), who participated in the Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrations at the Naharlagun Gurudwara, greeted the people on the pious occasion and said that Guru Nanak Prakash Utsav (Gurpurab) is a reminder to devotees to follow Guru Nanak�s teachings and overcome the five vices � lust, greed, attachment, anger and pride.
He also paid obeisance to Guru Granth Sahib and expressed the hope that Guru Nanak�s message of peace, brotherhood and development would be further embedded in the hearts and minds of people.
The Governor said that Guru Nanak had travelled far and wide, learned about all manners of people, their faith and practices, and preached the best things. He taught that all human beings, irrespective of gender and caste, are equal. He also preached that there is only one God and all human beings connect with him by �naam japana� (chanting of God�s name), �kirat karna� (doing prayers) and �vand chhakana� (sharing of earnings with others).
Sharing his personal experiences with people of the Sikh community, including Sikh soldiers, the Governor said that a helpful attitude and selfless service are hallmarks of their behaviour.
A large number of people from various communities participated in the celebrations in the Gurudwara Singh Sabha, Naharlagun. After the prayers, a lunch service was offered to every visitor to the Gurudwara.
