SPEECH OF HON’BLE GOVERNOR PUNJAB AND ADMINISTRATOR, UT CHANDIGARH, SHRI BANWARI LAL PUROHIT ON THE OCCASION OF LAUNCHING OF INDIA TODAY COFFEE TABLE BOOK TITLED AS SIKH- OUR HEROES AND PRIDE OF INDIA AT LALIT CHANDIGARH ON APRIL 3, 2024 AT 6.30 PM.

INDIA TODAY COFFEE TABLE BOOK TITLED AS SIKH – OUR HEROES & PRIDE OF INDIA ON APRIL 3, 2024

 I am glad to be here today at the launch of the coffee table book titled 'Sikh - Our Heroes & Pride of India'.

 This book stands as a testament to the invaluable contribution of Sikhs to various sectors of the Indian economy, their unparalleled courage, the unwavering resilience, and the remarkable success stories.

 The Sikh community has been an integral part of the Indian society for centuries, and their contributions have left an indelible mark on our nation's history.

 From the battlefields where their valor shines brightly to the corridors of power where their voices resonate.

 One of the most remarkable aspects highlighted in this book is the entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen of Sikh businessmen.

 From small traders to industrial tycoons, Sikhs have excelled in every sphere of business, contributing significantly to the economic prosperity of our nation.

 Their ability to innovate, adapt, and thrive in the face of adversity is truly commendable and serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.

 Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji said that running away to a forest won’t give you enlightenment. The idea  is to stay and persevere through the challenges that life throws at us.

 For most entrepreneurs, the journey from an idea to building a successful start-up story is laden with challenges.

 Running away may seem like the easy option but Guru Nanak’s principles tell you that one must stay in his or her course and ride through those difficulties to achieve the eventual goal.

 Besides success in business, what truly sets the Sikh community apart is their unwavering commitment to philanthropy.

 Time and again, Sikh businessmen have demonstrated their generosity and compassion, giving back to society in countless ways.

 Whether it is through building schools, hospitals, or providing assistance to the less fortunate, Sikhs have always been at the forefront of charitable endeavors, embodying the true spirit of 'seva' or selfless service.

 I believe that this tradition of seva which is deeply ingrained in Sikh culture is due to the path shown by  Guru Nanak Dev Ji who gave the mantra of “Kirat Karo, Naam Japo, Vand Chhako”, किरत करो, नाम जपो, वंड छको  which means Earn an honest living, Remember the Lord, Share what you get. This is being regularly followed by several sikh entrepreneurs across the world.

 Who does not remember ‘Sacha Sauda’ सच्चा सौदा of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He was given 20 rupees to do business but he used the money to feed the poor fakirs. He returned home empty handed, but was happy to help the poor. This incident is referred as ‘Sacha Sauda’ or true transaction.

 Besides, I firmly believed that it is from the Dashmesh Pita (दशमेश पिता) Guru Gobind Singh Ji – sikh community has inherited the virtue of magnanimity of heart. The bravery of Sahibzada Ajit Singh (17 yrs), Sahibzada Jujhar Singh (13 yrs) and the supreme sacrifice of Zorawar Singh Sahib (9 yrs) and Fateh Singh Sahib (5 yrs) who both were walled up alive, is un-paralleled in the history.

 Their unwavering commitment to their principles, even in the face immense adversity, their steadfastness in the face of persecution, served as a profound  example of resilience and determination in the pursuit of righteousness.

 This legacy continues to serve as the beacon of inspiration for all.

 I bow to Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s four Sahibzadas and Mata Gujri Ji.

 Talking of history, the founder of the Sikh Empire Sher-e-Punjab,  Maharaja Ranjit Singh, was also known for his generosity and benevolence towards his subjects, soldiers, and even strangers.

 It is said that he established langars (community kitchens) in various parts of his kingdom, where anyone, regardless of caste, creed, or religion, could enjoy a free meal.

 I am happy that India Today has put together this book profiling the Well-known Sikh personalities who are businessmen and are giving back to society.

 I must say that this book is not merely a collection of stories; it is a chronicle of the Sikh spirit - a spirit that embodies the values of hard work, determination, and selflessness.

 As we flip through the pages of this coffee table book, let us not only celebrate the achievements of the Sikh community but also reflect on the lessons they impart.

 Let us be inspired by their resilience in the face of adversity, their unwavering commitment to excellence, and their BOUNDLESS GENEROSITY towards others.

 Guru Nanak used to say-

“विच दुनिया सेवि कमाइये, त दरगिह बेसन पाइए”।

This is, it is only by adopting the path of service in the world that life turns successful. Let us pledge to make Guru Nanak’s words a part of our lives.

 May this book serve as a source of inspiration for generations to come, and may we always remember and honor the incredible contributions of the Sikh community, “Our True Heroes and the Pride of India.”

 All the best to the India Today Group for this venture!

Thank you.

Jai Hind.