CHANDIGARH, APRIL 12: The Punjab Governor and Administrator, Union Territory, Chandigarh, Gen. (Retd.) S.F. Rodrigues, PVSM VSM called upon our people to go to our roots and rich traditions and to work together for building a new “Resurgent India” based on the values of humanism, social equality, compassion, tolerance and harmonious living, as preached and practiced by Sri Guru Nanak Devi Ji, throughout his life.
Addressing an impressive function after releasing a book titled GURU NANAK: HIS LIFE & TEACHINGS (Hindi) authored by Shri Roopinder Singh, at Museum and Art Gallery, here today, General Rodrigues said that we are the product of glorious civilization and have a rich historical background enriched by the philosophy of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and other spiritual ambassadors of different faiths and religions, enshrined in Sri Guru Granth Sahib. He said that all these teachings profess the concept of oneness of mankind, inner transformation, reality of one God and selfless service to the needy. He regretted that we, so far could not translate their vision and message into action in true spirit in our lives. The need is, therefore, to introspect and to search within ourselves, to identify the factors coming in our way to give practical shape to the ideologies of the great saints & sages.
Appreciating the reported move of reviving the glorious traditions of Nalanda University, General Rodrigues said that it is essential for us to evolve a supportive culture and impart qualitative education in our Universities and education institutions, based on the moral, ethical and spiritual values to help our younger generations to be concerned and responsive citizens. He said that he has already asked the Vice Chancellor of Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar to conduct a study to produce good citizens imbued with our cherished Indian culture and human values. Similarly, he has requested the Vice Chancellor of Panjab University, Chandigarh to identify retired experts, professionals and mentors to contribute in different fields of endeavour concerning society, through their expertise, knowledge and experience.
General Rodrigues further said that Guru Nanak and other Sikh Gurus have a universal message of the equality of human beings, worship to one God, sharing & caring and leading an honest and pious life. Guru Ji raised a voice against the prejudices of caste, creed and discrimination against women. The time has now come for us to pay special attention to combat these social ills, especially the growing menace of female foeticide and drug addiction. He said that an action plan based on the studies conducted by the Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar on these vital issues, is already in the process of implementation and all the social, political and religious groups in the State have come forward in a big way in this societal endeavour.
Complementing the author of the book Shri Roopinder Singh, General Rodrigues said that the publication will go a long way in propagating the philosophy of Sri Guru Nanak Dev.
Mr. H. K. Dua, Editor-in-Chief of the Tribune while speaking on the occasion said that the message of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji is for the humanity and his whole life and teachings are the best example of idealistic living, based on fine principles like love for the humans, sacrifice for others and mutual understanding. He said that Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s philosophy propagates to lead a purposeful life, free from prejudices of personal ego, greed, caste and creed. He stressed for bringing out the editions of this book in other languages of the Country.
Prof B. N. Goswamy an eminent educationist spoke on the visual element of the book. Shri Roopinder Singh the author of the book proposed vote of thanks.
PB. RAJ BHAVAN/01/2007