Seminar dwells on Guru Nanak & inter-faith dialogue

On the occasion of the 56th Foundation Day of Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), the Department of Guru Nanak Studies organised the 40th one-day national seminar on the theme, "Philosophy of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Interfaith Dialogue".

The inaugural address at the seminar was delivered by Prof Jaspal Kaur Kang (Sri Fatehgarh Sahib). Prof Kang, while referring to the contemporary circumstances of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, explained to the audience the message of Gurbani and the significance of Udasis. She stated that the Guru used dialogue as a medium to teach humanity the lesson of "the right moment to uphold truth" (Sach Ki Bela). Citing references from Gurbani, Prof Kang explained that Guru Nanak engaged in dialogue with yogis, qazis, mullahs and the common people, thereby conveying to the entire creation the concept of the divine and the message of human unity.

The keynote address at the seminar was delivered by Prof Gurmeet Singh Sidhu. In his lecture, he highlighted that Guru Nanak Dev was a pioneer of interfaith dialogue. "Guru Nanak travelled to different parts of the world to personally convey his philosophy. Dialogue is a means through which we come to know others. He also emphasised that dialogue is equally essential for self-reflection," Prof Sidhu said.

In addition, distinguished scholars such as Dr Satnam Singh Deol, Dr Gurmail Singh, Dr Tejinderpal Singh, Dr Harkiran Kaur, Dr Vishal, Dr Akaal Amrit Kaur, Dr Jogeshwar Singh and others presented their insights during the seminar. Scholars, teachers, research scholars and students from various universities and colleges also participated in the event.

Seminar on Guru Tegh Bahadur

Another event was held at the Department of Chemistry, Department of Physical Education and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Guru Nanak Dev University, that jointly organised a one-day seminar to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur. Prof Palwinder Singh, Head, Department of Chemistry and Dean Academic Affairs, emphasised the Guru's steadfast commitment to righteousness, spiritual devotion and the protection of the oppressed. Distinguished scholars Prof Inderjit Singh Gogoani and Dr Kanwaljit Singh delivered lectures, sharing insight into Guru Tegh Bahadur's life.

Dr Inderjit Singh Gogoani, Principal, Khalsa College Senior Secondary School, Amritsar, explored the historical context of Guru Tegh Bahadur's sacrifices and the enduring moral lessons embedded within them. He traced the Guru's journey as a spiritual leader, emphasising his unwavering stand against oppression and his unparalleled courage in safeguarding the right to freedom of conscience.

Dr Kanwaljit Singh, Assistant Professor and Head, Department of Punjabi, Shri Guru Angad Dev College, Khadur Sahib, presented a deeply insightful interpretation of Guru Tegh Bahadur's literary and spiritual contributions. "The Guru's Bani speak profoundly about detachment, moral discipline, inner peace and the divine path of fearlessness. He was a moral torch-bearer whose teachings promote compassion, humility and spiritual resilience," he said.