PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday issued the following statement to mark the anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji:

“Today, Sikhs in Canada and around the world will celebrate the anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and a revered spiritual leader.

“On this important occasion, families and friends will gather to reflect on Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings of equality, and the values of unity, selflessness, and compassion that he upheld. These important values continue to guide Sikh Canadians today, and can serve as an inspiration for all Canadians as we strive to build a better future for all.

“Canada is home to one of the largest Sikh communities across the world. The anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji is an opportunity for all of us to recognize the many contributions of Sikh Canadians to Canada’s culture, community, and economy, making our country stronger and more vibrant.

“On behalf of all Canadians, I offer my warmest wishes to everyone celebrating the anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

“Happy Gurpurab!”

PREMIER David Eby said in a statement:

“Today, Sikhs in British Columbia and around the world are celebrating the 554th anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism.

“Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first of the Sikh faith’s 10 spiritual leaders, dedicated his life to preaching and embodying the values of equality, unity and compassion.

“The celebrations began in gurdwaras two days ago, when Sikhs started reading the Guru Granth Sahib, from beginning to end. This continuous reading is called an Akhand Path, a meaningful meditative practice that is done in shifts until the morning of Gurpurab.

“On this celebratory day, family and friends will gather to read scripture, sing hymns and give back to the community through service to others, regardless of faith, ethnicity or background.

“This day is also an occasion to recognize the significant contributions Sikh Canadians have made to our province and to Canada.

“I extend my warmest wishes for a happy Guru Nanak Gurpurab to all who celebrate.”

PIERRE Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, said in a statement:

“In Gurdwaras across the country today, Sikhs will gather to celebrate the legacy of their founder – Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

“From his childhood, Guru Nanak Dev Ji embodied the timeless values of peace and generosity. His life was defined by the pursuit of equality and principles of meditating on God, earning through means of honest living and selflessly sharing and giving to others. For generations, these profound teachings have inspired Sikhs from all walks of life, motivating them to greater faithfulness and acts of kindness and charity.

“In honour of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, today Sikhs here in Canada and around the world will host celebrations that carry on his legacy. Many worshippers will host langars, giving food to the hungry and bringing hope to their communities. Others will take time for personal meditation on the scriptures of the Guru Granth Sahib.

“As Sikh communities around the world come together today, I pray that it is a time of joy and spiritual fulfillment. May the values of faith, family and freedom that were laid down centuries ago by Guru Nanak Dev Ji continue to sustain you and strengthen you for the days ahead.

“Happy Gurpurab!”

FEDERAL NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh made the following statement:

“Today, marks the anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Sahib Ji and on behalf of all New Democrats I want to wish everyone a happy and prosperous Gurpurab.

Even 554 years after his birth, Guru Nanak Sahib Ji’s message is still relevant and important today. He dedicated his life to spreading love, equality, social justice, community service, and unity that transcended caste, creed, gender, sexual orientation, and religion.

As Sikhs across the world celebrate Gurpurab, let us all remember the importance of these values and how they reflect in Canada, and around the world. Together, lets commit to building a more inclusive country filled with equality and unity.

I wish everyone who’s observing a happy Gurpurab.”