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To
the Sikhs and Hindus alike, the full moon of Kartik or Guru Nanak's
birthday, is holy.
Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, was born in 1469 A.D. at a critical
period of history when the people of India were divided into many
castes and communities. In this time of misfortune, Guru Nanak came
as a divine blessing to India. He became part of India's progressive
movement from medievalism to modernity. He pioneered a change in
religious beliefs creating new convictions and fervour among his
followers. The Sikhs are godfearing people devoted to service. As
an example of universal love and faith, Guru Nanak is worshipped
by everyone in India on this auspicious day.
Readings from the venerated Granth Sahib, which contains the tenents
of Sikhism, is an integral feature of very important occasion.
On this day langars, or community kitchens, are organised and all
people who visit the Gurudwam share the simple but tasty meal of
dal, roti, kada prasad and vegetables. All castes and creeds sit
together to eat and sing hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib called
Gurubani. Prasad is served to all and a reaffirmation of the principles
taught by the gurus - equality, unity and brotherhood among all
human beings - is made by everyone. The belief in the openess of
religion to all creeds of people is reflected in the architecture
of the Golden Temple which contains lofty archways on every side.
The Sikhs celebrate Guru Parabs, the birth anniversaries of all
their gurus, but the most important ones are those of Guru Nanak
and Guru Gobind Singh, the last guru.
To
the Sikhs and Hindus alike, the full moon of Kartik or Guru Nanak's
birthday, is holy. 
