The religious fervour, gaiety and devotion marked the celebration of Prakash Utsav (Birthday) of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev ji, by Hindu Elders Foundation.
The community organisation for the elderly held the celebrations on Sunday (November 13, 2022) at Balmoral Community Hall (Bhartiya Mandir Complex), Sandringham, Auckland.
Hindu Elders Foundation (HEF) aims to empower the community's elders (senior citizens).
The mass congregation saw the recitations of Gurbani Kirtan (Sikh devotional songs) and inspirational speeches on the life stories of Guru Nanak Dev ji by renowned dignitaries.
Those who graced the occasion were Honorary Consul of India in Auckland, Bhav Dhillon; Chairperson of NZ Central Sikh Association, Prithi Pal Singh Basra; Sanghchalak Hindu Swyamsevak Sangh, New Zealand, Shrikant Bhave; Past President of Hindu Council of New Zealand, Vinod Kumar; Ex. Member of Parliament of Fiji, Harnam Singh Golian; Chairperson of Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust, Jeet Suchdev; Ex-MP Mahesh Bindra Ji; Lifestyle & Activity Manager
Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust Vishav Sharma and Elder Abuse Response Social Worker, Age Concern Auckland, Jyoti Parashar, among others,
One of the devotees, Amandeep Singh, recited Shabad, Sat Guru Aayo Saran Tumahri and Hey Gobind Hey Gopal, which enthralled all attendees. His daughter, Harnoor Kaur - a student in year 12, also sang a Shabad Aas Piasi Birke Tai, which everyone appreciated.
Speaking on occasion, Bhav Dhillon mentioned that the world is waking up now to the issues Guru Nanak Dev ji raised 550 years ago. “ It was so fulfilling to celebrate Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Birthday with Hindu Elders Foundation. Everyone so lovingly remembered the great founder of Sikhism and his universal teachings of peace and brotherhood, which are relevant even today," he said.
Satya Parkash Pahuja, President, Hindu Elders Foundation also spoke about the life and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and how everyone should endeavour to follow the same.
Bhave also expressed that celebrating the auspicious occasion like Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji Prakash Utsav would further strengthen brotherhood, communal harmony and secular traditions and would be a harbinger of peace and progress.
Yatish Wadhera, secretary, Hindu Elders Foundation, thanked all the dignitaries, singers and members who came and took part in the auspicious celebration and got the blessings of Gurus.
He said, "I am so thankful to everyone who came here on this special occasion. I hope we all can imbibe and spread the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev ji in our lives."
The Guru ka langar was also served to the Sadh Sangat (devotees).