Guru Arjan Dev's sacrifice is an eternal message of truth, courage and protection of humanity: Haryana CM
Chandigarh, June 18
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has said the sacrifice of Guru Arjan Dev, fifth Sikh Guru, is a unique example of truth, righteousness, humanity and spiritual strength in Indian history.
He said the Sikh Guru's life and martyrdom inspire people never to bow before injustice, oppression and falsehood.
The Chief Minister was addressing a state-level function organised in Panchkula on the occasion of the 420th Martyrdom Day of Sri Guru Arjan Dev on Thursday.
A documentary film based on the life of Sri Guru Arjan Dev Ji was also screened on the occasion. The Chief Minister also participated in Chhabeel Seva, a release said.
Addressing the gathering organised under the Haryana Government's Sant Mahapurush Samman Evam Vichar Prasar Yojana, the Chief Minister said that he felt fortunate to be present at the event held on the sacred land of Sri Mata Mansa Devi and Sri Nada Sahib. Paying floral tributes to Sri Guru Arjan Dev, he said that the Guru's sacrifice is not only the heritage of the Sikh community but a source of inspiration for the entire nation.
He said that India's history is filled with a glorious tradition of sacrifice, penance, devotion and spiritual valour. Whenever the nation, religion, culture and humanity faced challenges, saints and Gurus came forward with their sacrifices to protect truth and righteousness. The martyrdom of Sri Guru Arjan Dev stands as one of the greatest examples of this noble tradition.
The Chief Minister said that Sri Guru Arjan Dev played a historic role in uniting society and bringing humanity together.
He established Sri Harmandir Sahib in Amritsar and ensured that it had four entrances, symbolising that the holy shrine is open to all humanity irrespective of caste, class or religion. He said Guru Sahib had, centuries ago, given practical shape to the ideals of social harmony, equality and the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family).
The Chief Minister said that the Haryana Government has also taken several important initiatives to introduce the history and teachings of Sikh Gurus to the younger generation. The history of Sikh Gurus has been included in the Class VIII history curriculum. Students will now also study the sacrifice, contributions and ideals of Baba Banda Singh Bahadur.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm not from India, but I read about Guru Arjan Dev's martyrdom. It's incredible how a religious leader from 400 years ago still inspires people today. The unity message across caste and class is something the world needs now more than ever. Thanks for sharing this.
True that! But actions speak louder than words. The CM should ensure that the documentary reaches rural areas too, not just screened for VIPs. And more than adding history to textbooks, we need to teach the values: standing against injustice, helping the needy. Chhabeel seva is a great practice everyone should follow.
Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - such a powerful concept! This gives me a new perspective on India's pluralistic traditions. I wish more of our world leaders would understand that religion should unite, not divide. The story of four entrances at Harmandir Sahib really moved me.
Guru Arjan Dev's martyrdom is a reminder that speaking truth to power requires immense courage. In today's polarized times, we need to remember his message of compassion and equality. The CM's initiative is good but more concrete steps - like promoting interfaith dialogues - would be truly honoring his legacy.
I visited Harmandir Sahib last year and was amazed by its openness. The story of Guru Arjan Dev's sacrifice adds so much depth to the experience. It's wonderful that India honors such saints and shares their teachings with the younger generation. We could learn a lot from this inclusive approach.
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