For the second consecutive year, the White House celebrated 'Gurparb', the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, with traditional 'kirtan' on Friday, as President Barack Obama greeted the community on the "extraordinary occasion" saying Americans shared principles of Sikhism like equality and interfaith cooperation.
Eminent members of the Sikh community attended the Gurparb celebrations at the executive mansion and were welcomed by senior officials led by Christina M Tchen, head of the White House Office of Public Engagement. "Obama has deep regards for the Sikh community and we are eager to work with you all," Tchen said, addressing the 120 Sikhs from across the US, who were present on the occasion attired in colorful turbans and traditional Punjabi dresses.
In his message, Obama said: "On Sunday, many around the world will observe the anniversary of birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. I send my best wishes to all those observing this extraordinary occasion."
"This is also an opportunity to recognise the many contributions that Sikh Americans have made to our nation, and to reflect on the pluralism that is a hallmark of America. Sikhism's principles of equality, service, interfaith cooperation and respect are principles shared by all Americans," he said.
"As Sikhs celebrate the birth of Guru Nanak, people of good will everywhere can identify with his teachings on the equality of all humankind and the need for compassion in our service to others," Obama said. The programme started with the traditional kirtan with harmonium and tabla performed by Ragi Nirmal Singh Nagpuri and Sukhjeevan Singh of the Golden Temple. They sang a hymn in praise of Guru Nanak and a hymn written by Guru Nanak conveying the message of universality.
Official speeches were interspersed by a series of Sikh greetings Jo Bole So Nihal and thunderous response of Sat Sri Akal which means -
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