Guru Nanak Jayanti being celebrated across the country

Guru Nanak Jayanti is being celebrated across the country today with great religious fervor, dedication and devotion.

President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh have wished the nation on this auspicious occasion.

President Mukherjee in his message said Guru Nanak Devji was a symbol of love, tolerance and compassion

"He preached universal brotherhood and the importance of rendering service to humanity. The revered Guru showed us the path to a truly spiritual life based on ethical and moral values. His universal wisdom and humanism have been an abiding source of inspiration to people everywhere regardless of caste, colour or creed," he said.

"Let us, on this day, resolve to rededicate ourselves to his noble teachings which are of eternal relevance. May this auspicious occasion be an opportunity for us to spread love and bring warmth as well as care to the needy and suffering," he added.

Vice President Ansari in his message said that Guru Nanak Devji has been apostle of universal love, piety and spiritual faith.

"I extend my greetings and good wishes to the citizens of our country on the auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak Devji's birthday. His divine message of devotion to God, excellence of conduct and tolerance has timeless relevance for the mankind. On this joyous occasion let us pray that his teachings inspire us to move towards a peaceful and just society," he added.

The Prime Minister in his message said Guru Nanak ji's life and message emphasizing truth, simplicity and equality of all human beings continues to inspire and guide us

"His teachings can help us lead a happier, more meaningful and more fulfilling life, he added.

Guru Nanak was born in Nankana Saheb on this day in 1469.