JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) organized a thought-provoking one-day seminar on the life and legacy of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in commemoration of his 555th birth anniversary. The event took place at the K.L. Saigal Hall, Jammu, and was graced by prominent dignitaries, scholars, and artists from various walks of life.
The seminar was inaugurated by Principal Secretary, Culture Suresh Kumar Gupta. In his inaugural address, Suresh Kumar emphasized the profound impact of Guru Nanak Dev Ji's teachings, which transcend time and place, promoting values of unity, equality, and humanity. He also highlighted the significant role of Guru Nanakâs philosophy in fostering peace and communal harmony in the region.
Secretary JKAACL, Harvinder Kour, in her address spoke passionately about the relevance of Guru Nanak Dev Jiâs message in todayâs world, where his teachings on equality, selflessness, and service to humanity resonate more than ever.
Harvinder Kour emphasized the Academyâs ongoing efforts to promote and preserve the cultural heritage of the region, particularly Sikh traditions, and expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support from the participants, scholars, and the community in making the seminar a success. She urged the younger generation to embrace the values of compassion, humility, and peace that Guru Nanak Dev Ji championed, stressing that his life and legacy continue to guide and inspire people across the globe.
The inaugural session was presided over by Prof. Rajkumar, a respected academic figure, while Manjit Singh, Chairman of the Sikhs All Foundation, was the esteemed Guest of Honour. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Arvinder Singh Amn, who elaborated on the theme, âGuru Nanak: Life and Legacy.â Dr. Amn spoke about Guru Nanak's visionary teachings that laid the foundation for Sikhism and continue to inspire millions around the world.
Dr. Javaid Rahi, Chief Editor of Gojri, extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests and scholars, while Sh. Popinder Singh Paras, Editor of Sheeraza Punjabi, also participated in the seminar. The program commenced with a devotional Gurbani Bajan Aarti, presented by students from Government Degree College (GDC), Jammu.
The seminar was structured into multiple sessions, each contributing to a deeper understanding of Guru Nanakâs life and teachings: The second paper session was chaired by Khalid Hussain, a renowned Punjabi short story writer, with Harjit Singh Uppal and Jang Singh Verman sharing the stage. Eminent Punjabi writer Ajit Singh Mastana and scholar Dr. Harsimran Singh also presented their papers in the session, offering valuable insights into Guru Nanak's legacy in literature and philosophy.
The poetry session, which followed, featured a vibrant array of performances from students and poets, including Dr. Jitender Udhampuri and Dr. Baljit Singh Raina, who were present in the presidium. Students from various colleges presented their poems in honor of Guru Nanak Dev Ji's teachings, including Gurpreet Kaur, Harpreet Kaur, Supreet Kour, Jagmeet Kour, Suraj Singh, Baljit Singh Raina, and others.
The concluding session was marked by a final round of poetic performances, where young students from different colleges shared their compositions on the life and teachings of Guru Nanak, embodying the spirit of his message through their words. Notable participants included Harjit Singh Uppal, Bachan Bharti, Balkar Singh, Manjit Kamra, Bhupinder Singh Bhargav, Rajpal Singh Mastana, and many more.
The seminar was attended by scholars, poets, writers, and members of the KSS, including Kamaljit Singh, T.P. Singh, Rajinder Singh, and various other dignitaries. The event was a fitting tribute to Guru Nanak Dev Jiâs enduring influence on the world, inspiring all who attended to continue spreading his messages of peace, unity, and love. The proceedings of the seminar were conducted by Popinder Singh Paras, who also presented the vote of thanks to all participants, speakers, and attendees for making the event a memorable success.
