Description
Nanak was born in 1469 in Talwandi Rai Bhoe ki, fifty-seven miles from Lahore. It is believed that the town was attacked thirteen times and reduced to ruins but was rebuilt because of the resilient spirit of the Punjabis.
It was renamed Nankana by its chief Rai Bular in honour of the Guru.
Advent of Guru Nanak is thus described by Bhai Gurdas, Sikh savant and amanuensis of Guru Granth Sahib:
“With the appearance of Nanak, the true Guru, the mist cleared and the light scattered all around as with the rise of sun darkness dispels”. – Varan Bhai Gurdas.
From Guru Nanak’s hymns we learn that India at that time was passing through a period of civilisational conflict. Fortunately, wise men and women from different faiths put their heads together and the result was Bhakti and Sufi movements. Both emphasised upon transcending boundaries created in the name of caste, colour and creed and preached loving devotion to God.
Guru’s pioneering efforts in awakening the masses from their slumber through his soul stirring hymns set to music by Bhai Mardana, is beautifully described by Allama Iqbal:
“Again from Panjab the call of monotheism arose, A perfect man roused India from its slumber.”
The volume traces development of Sikh religion from Guru Nanak to Guru Gobind Singh, highlighting the grand plan of the founder with each successor Guru strengthening the institutions introduced by Nanak. His mission to create a just social order was completed by Guru Gobind Singh with creation of the Khalsa and announced to the beat of the Nagara.