Auckland resonated with the spirit of Guru Nanak’s teachings as the Hindu Elders Foundation (HEF) celebrated the 554th Gurpurab (Prakash Diwas) with enthusiasm and devotion.
The December 10 celebration at Balmoral Community Hall was a pulsating tribute to the timeless wisdom of Guru Nanak, the luminary founder of Sikhism. With more than 100 members and guests in attendance, the event promised spiritual enlightenment.
The anticipation in the air was palpable as Satya Parkash Pahuja extended a warm welcome to an illustrious ensemble of guests. Among them were Bhav Dhillon, Honorary Consul of India in Auckland; ACT MP Parmjeet Parmar; former MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, and Jeet Sachdev, Chairperson of Bhartiya Samaj, among others.
Expressing his sentiments, Dhillon said, “I felt blessed to attend Gurpurab of Guru Nanak Dev Ji by Hindu Elders Foundation of NZ. It depicted interfaith love, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's ideals, and the teaching of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.”
MP Parmar called it a great opportunity, "It is always great to have the opportunity to listen to the Shabad Kirtan and be reminded of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s enlightening teachings.”
The evening unfurled into a spiritual symphony, resonating with the soul-stirring melodies of kirtan performed by Sarinder Singh and his enthralling troupe. Harmonising with this divine music, HEF members graced the atmosphere with their heartfelt rendition of the shabad, creating an ethereal blend of devotion and festivity.
As the guests took centrestage, it was more than just speeches; it was a captivating exploration of Guru Nanak Dev Ji's teachings. The President and fellow speakers painted vivid portraits of the guru's life, infusing the venue with the essence of his universal principles.
The celebration didn't halt at profound reflections; it blossomed into a communal feast as the langer unfolded, inviting all to partake in a communal feast. Guests and members, irrespective of backgrounds, savoured the flavours of unity and brotherhood symbolised by this shared meal.
Yatish Wadhera, the Secretary of HEF, took the podium with heartfelt gratitude. “I am overwhelmed to see all the attendees feeling blessed by listening to gurbani from Guru Granth Sahib Ji and particularly non-Punjabi members who were educated about the teachings and life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Such events strengthen the bonds among different religions.”