On the auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti, Guruburab was celebrated at the EMPI Campus with the usual pomp and gaiety. The students and faculty along with their families gathered to celebrate the occasion on a mild winter morning on the day of ‘Kartik Purnima’.

 

The day started with the recitation of ‘shabads’ over the PA System. This motivated even those who had second thoughts, to change and join in the celebrations at our Amphitheater. The ‘puja sthal’ was decorated tastefully with flowers and other embellishments which gave the resemblance of a Gurudwara.

 

As per traditions the holy ‘Guru Granth Sahib’ was brought in by the young 'granthis' led by Giani Sarwan Singh from Guru Granth Sahib Ji Vidya Kendra, Chattarpur to grace this occasion. The ‘sangat’ was seated by 9.45 a.m. and the ceremonies commenced with the arrival of our Hon’ble President Mr. Gurnam Saran.

 

The Japji Sahib Path was recited by the Granthis and the 'sangat' joined them in reciting the same. This was followed by ‘Keertan’ by the Ragi Jatha from the Vidya Kendra. The recitation of shabads by the young ragis mesmerized the 'sangat' and the students and at least for some time they were relieved from their hidden tension about the Examinations. This was followed by a short talk by the Granthi who enlightened all present about the life and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Guru Nanak came to this world at a time when the region was in turmoil over religious fanaticism. He gave the message of universal brotherhood and delivered three main lessons to the people – ‘Naam Japna’, ‘Kirat Karni’ and ‘Vand Chakna’. His main contributions included Equality of Human beings, Equality of women and Universal message for all people.

 

This was followed by the showering of blessings on this occasion by our Hon’ble President Mr. Gurnam Saran. He shared his memories of this day in the past, with the students. He highlighted how EMPI was following the true teachings of Guru Nanak by celebrating all the festivals of various religions and sharing their joy and fervor at the Campus. It was one of those rare occasions when the President decided to speak in Hindi so that his message could be better understood by all present including the families and our guests.

 

In the end, our Dean and Mentor Col. A. Dhongde gave a Vote of Thanks to Giani Swaran Singh and his Jatha for sparing their valuable time to come and conduct the ceremonies and enlighten all of us. He also thanked the students for sparing some of their precious time to attend this function and the organizers for organizing a memorable celebration.

 

The celebrations ended with an ‘ardas’ by the Granthi Ji who sought the blessings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji for success to EMPI in all our endeavours and also to the students for their Term End Examinations commencing the next day. This was followed by the traditional distribution of holy ‘parsad’ and the volunteers ensured that everybody present received a sumptuous helping of the same.