Amritsar, Punjab – President Droupadi Murmu, during a visit to the holy city of Amritsar on Wednesday, invoked the teachings of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, emphasizing the core principles of ‘Naam jappo, kirt karo, vand chhako’ – remember God, work honestly, and share with others. Her address came during a civic reception hosted in her honour at the Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) campus.
President Murmu highlighted the significance of Guru Nanak’s message of equality, selfless service, and universal brotherhood, stating that these principles remain profoundly relevant in contemporary India. She noted that Guru Nanak’s teachings inspire individuals to lead a life of purpose and contribute to the well-being of society. The President also praised Punjab’s rich cultural heritage and its pivotal role in India’s history, particularly its contribution to the nation’s food security.
Punjab’s Historical Significance
She acknowledged Punjab’s sacrifices during the freedom struggle and its continued resilience in the face of challenges. “Punjab has always been the land of warriors and saints,” she remarked, adding that the state’s spirit of enterprise and its people’s hard work are commendable. The President also touched upon the importance of education and skill development in empowering the youth of Punjab and enabling them to contribute to the nation’s progress.
Earlier in the day, President Murmu paid her respects at the Golden Temple, the most sacred shrine of the Sikh faith. She was received with traditional honours and spent time in quiet contemplation within the temple complex. She also visited the Jallianwala Bagh memorial, a poignant reminder of the tragic massacre of 1919, and paid tribute to the martyrs. The visit to Jallianwala Bagh was particularly significant, as it underscored the nation’s commitment to remembering and learning from its past.
Governor Punjab Banwarilal Purohit and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann were present at the civic reception. Chief Minister Mann, in his address, expressed gratitude to the President for visiting Punjab and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to upholding the state’s traditions and promoting its development. He also outlined various initiatives undertaken by his government to improve the lives of the people of Punjab, focusing on areas such as education, healthcare, and agriculture.
The President’s visit to Amritsar is seen as a gesture of goodwill and a recognition of the importance of Punjab in the national narrative. Her emphasis on Guru Nanak’s teachings resonated deeply with the local community and served as a reminder of the enduring values that underpin Indian society. The event was attended by a large gathering of dignitaries, students, and members of the public, all eager to witness the President’s address and pay their respects.
Concluding her speech, President Murmu urged the people of Punjab to continue working towards a brighter future, guided by the principles of peace, harmony, and progress. She expressed confidence that Punjab would continue to play a leading role in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation.
Image Source: Google | Image Credit: Respective Owner
