PRIME Minister Stephen Harper on Thursday issued the following statement marking the anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji:
“Laureen and I would like to extend our best wishes to Sikhs across the country and around the world as they celebrate the 545th anniversary of the birth of the founder of their faith, Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
“Sikhism has grown to become one of the world’s great religions and I am thankful that our country is home to one of the largest and most dynamic Sikh populations outside of India.
“The values of Sikhism, including compassion, justice, and respect, are also Canadian values.
“Over the years, Laureen and I have been privileged to visit many wonderful Sikh temples both in India and here in Canada, including the Gur Sikh temple in Abbotsford, British Columbia, which stands as a National Historic Site and as a reminder to all Canadians that Sikhs have been an integral part of Canadian society for more than 100 years.
“On this occasion, I would also like to acknowledge the tremendous contributions of Canada’s vibrant Sikh community to our country’s rich and diverse heritage.
“On behalf of all Canadians, I extend my warmest regards to all those celebrating the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.”
B.C. Premier Christy Clark’s statement marking the birthday of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji:
“I would like extend my best wishes to British Columbia’s Sikh community as you celebrate the birth of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
“Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji dedicated his life to the values that define the Sikh faith: the equality of all people, service to the community, humility, and the pursuit of truth. Those principles are ones we should all hold dear.
“On this happy occasion, I am grateful for the contributions of our Sikh friends and neighbours in communities throughout British Columbia.”
JASON Kenney, Minister for Multiculturalism, and Tim Uppal, Minister of State for Multiculturalism, issued the following statement to recognize Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Parkash Gurpurab:
“Today, Sikhs in Canada and around the world will celebrate the birth of their spiritual leader.
“Born in 1469, Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the founder of the Sikh faith whose teachings of God remembrance, selfless service, honest living, and equality continue to attract nearly 24 million devout followers from around the world.
“As Canada is home to one of the largest Sikh communities outside of India, today is an excellent opportunity for all Canadians to reflect on the important contributions of our Sikh community to our country’s history and achievements, including the generosity shown by the community in support of hospitals, food banks, and charities.
“We offer our best wishes for a joyous celebration to all Sikhs celebrating across Canada today.”
MP Jinny Sims on Guru Nanak Gurpurab:
“Guru Nanak Gurpurab is one of the great sacred dates of the Sikh religion and is dedicated to celebrating the birth of Sikhism founder Guru Nanak, some 545 years ago.
“Today, I invite my constituents, along with all Canadians, to reflect on the meaning of this momentous occasion, and celebrate the values of respect, generosity and mutual assistance that it conveys. Let it serve as a reminder of our shared objective to work to make our country a more inclusive place for all.
“I wish everyone observing Guru Nanak Gurpurab a wonderful celebration.
“Aap sabh noo, Guru Nanak Sahib Ji De Parkash Utsav Dee Lakh Lakh Vadaee Hove Ji.”
