India: Interfaith conference held in Punjab

In honor of the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak, the Gobind Marg Charitable Trust organized a remarkable interfaith conference at the iconic Golden Temple, Amritsar, on the theme: “A Wave of Kindness and Love for Humanity.”

Guru Nanak (1469–1539), the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus, was a revered Indian spiritual teacher, mystic, and poet.

Born in Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, and passing away in Kartarpur, Pakistan, his teachings continue to inspire millions worldwide.

The interfaith gathering brought together an impressive array of religious leaders, highlighting unity across faiths.

The five ordained leaders of Sikhism’s sacred thrones joined prominent religious figures from around the globe.

Among them were Bishop Agnelo Ruffino of Jalandhar, Fr. Norbert Herman, Director of Interfaith Relations for Northern India; Rabbi Dr. Yakov Nagen of Israel; Dr. Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, Chief Imam of India; Ling Rinpoche, a leading Buddhist teacher; Jain leader Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni; and representatives from the Brahma Kumaris and other traditions.

All leaders paid their respects at Harmandir Sahib (the Golden Temple), a symbol of Sikh spirituality and communal harmony.

Fr. Norbert Herman, Director of the Commission for Ecumenism and Interfaith Dialogue in the Archdiocese of Delhi, highlighted the shared mission of the participants: "Throughout the conference, religious leaders spoke with one voice, emphasizing the collective need to sow seeds of hope through courage, conviction, and dedication, cultivating a harvest of peace.”

Fr. Herman also shared Pope Francis’s call to action, urging individuals to revive hope in those who feel abandoned.

“Through both small gestures and larger efforts, we are all called to contribute to a world of hope and harmony,” he said.

The conference underscored the Sikh belief in the unity of God, a tenet central to the faith.

With its origins in Punjab during the 15th century, Sikhism is now the fifth-largest religion globally, boasting over 27 million adherents, including approximately 21 million in India as per the 2011 census.

Coordinated by Parampal Singh and Gur Sahib Singh, the event demonstrated how interfaith dialogue can act as a beacon of hope and solidarity, celebrating Guru Nanak's enduring legacy of compassion and unity.

Sikhism, a panentheistic and monotheistic faith, teaches that there is only one God, who is simultaneously all-pervading and present in all creation.

Its philosophy, rooted in the Indian state of Punjab, emphasizes equality, service, and devotion, forming a foundation for interfaith harmony and social justice.