In a joyous celebration that resonated with the universal message of Ek Onkar, the IHA Foundation, in association with Uddipani, marked the 554th Birth Anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Devji. The celebrations, held at the Park Circus Maidan witnessed a gathering of members from diverse faiths and esteemed religious leaders, all coming together to embody the spirit of unity and oneness. The evening unfolded with a palpable sense of unity as individuals from various religious backgrounds converged to celebrate the teachings of Sri Guru Nanak Devji. Ek Onkar, the central tenet of Sikhism, emphasizing the oneness of God, served as the guiding theme for the evening. Representatives from different faiths came together, emphasizing the common thread that unites humanity.

554 Diyas Illuminate the Path to Oneness - The highlight of the evening was the lighting of 554 diyas, a symbolic gesture representing each year since the birth of Sri Guru Nanak Devji. The act of kindling these diyas held a profound emotional connect, transcending individual beliefs and backgrounds. The flickering flames served as a poignant metaphor for the divine light that unites us all, irrespective of our diverse paths and perspectives.

In a poignant moment, Satnam Singh Ahluwalia , expressed, "As each diya illuminated, it reflected the collective spirit of humanity. The light not only brightened the physical space but also illuminated the shared values that bind us together. It was a powerful reminder that, at our core, we are all connected." Esteemed religious leaders graced the occasion, sharing insightful reflections on the importance of unity and understanding in today's world. Their messages echoed the teachings of Guru Nanak Devji, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and collaboration in fostering a harmonious global community. The celebration was further enriched by Gurbani Shabad – Awal Allah Noor Upaya Kudrat ke Sab Bande, which resonated with all the people who had gathered on this auspicious occasion to remember the teachings of the Guru.

“IHA Foundation has always tried to bring awareness by spreading the teachings of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji in a diverse but distinct manner which is equally consequential and important, this programme was another of our endeavors to remember the teachings of our Guru and to spread his message among all so that we shall all resolve to conduct ourselves in a manner so as to emulate his teaching.” said Satnam Singh Ahluwalia, Member West Bengal Minorities Commission and Chairman IHA Foundation. Satnam Singh Ahluwalia, Member West Bengal Minorities Commission further added “Today, on the very special occasion of the 554th Birth Anniversary of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, my greetings to everyone. This is a day to rededicate ourselves to fulfilling Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji's dream of a just, inclusive and harmonious society. His message holds as much true today as it was over 500 years ago when he delivered it. The world needs to follow his teachings to ensure everyone lives in peace and equality.,”

“The success of this celebration underscores the collective commitment to fostering harmony and unity.”, said Arjun Dhawan, Convenor of Uddipani.

Present during the celebration Brahmachari Divakar Chaitanya (Chinmay Mission), Fr Dominic Gomes (PRO Vicar General, Diocese of Calcutta), ), Munni Mani Kumar Maharaj (Jain Monk, Nanak Sambtani (Holy Mission Sri Guru Nanak), Moulana Syed Hasan Zaki Rizvi (Imam E Jumma), Rev. Martin A Pakhare – Presbyter-in-Charge of Calcutta Hill Christian Church, Dr Arunjyoti Bhikku and and other representatives.