By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Shri Gurudwara Sahib Sierra Leone Limited joined Sikhs worldwide on Friday, November 15, 2024, to commemorate the 555th anniversary of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. The auspicious event, held at Shri Gurudwara Sahib Lumley, drew dozens of devotees from across the country, along with local dignitaries, sponsors, and community members.
The celebration centered on honoring Guru Nanak’s teachings of unity, service, and compassion. S. Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva, affectionately known as Pa Jetty, who is the head of the organization and CEO of Jeety Trading Co., emphasized Guru Nanak’s principles of Naam Japo (meditate on God’s name), Kirat Karo (engage in honest work), and Wand Chhako (share with others).
Speaking at the event, S. Mohinder Bir Singh Sachdeva, affectionately known as Pa Jetty and CEO of Jeety Trading Co., emphasized the core teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji:
1. Naam Japo – Meditate on God’s name.
2. Kirat Karo – Engage in honest work.
3. Wand Chhako – Share with others.
“These principles form the bedrock of Sikhism and guide us to live meaningful and selfless lives,” said Pa Jetty. He further reflected on the universal relevance of Guru Nanak’s teachings, urging the community to use education and service to make positive contributions to society.
Shri Gurudwara Sahib, known for its dedication to cultural and social outreach, highlighted its ongoing efforts to support the vulnerable. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization played a pivotal role in providing relief, and its community-driven initiatives continue through projects like the Sick Pikin Marathon and the Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship, which supports over 150 children annually.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s philosophy of serving humanity remains a cornerstone of Sikhism. He established the concept of Langar Sewa (community kitchen), ensuring free meals for all, irrespective of background. This legacy continues through Shri Gurudwara Sahib’s initiatives in Sierra Leone.
Shri Gurudwara Sahib provides scholarships to over 150 children annually through the Baba Guru Nanak Scholarship. It also participates in the Sick Pikin Project, which aids children with serious medical conditions. Additionally, every Saturday, volunteers prepare and serve meals to approximately 1,200 individuals, reflecting the principle of Wand Chhako.
During this year’s celebration, nearly 6,000 takeaway meals accompanied by soft drinks and water were distributed at various locations across Freetown, including Texaco, Portee Junction, Juhi Junction, Waterloo, Baw-Baw, Ecowas Street, Kroo Town Road, Adonkia, and Lumley.
The Sikh faith is rooted in the belief of Ek Onkar (God is One) and promotes the idea of unity among all people, regardless of religion, caste, or background. Guru Nanak’s teachings, preserved in the Guru Granth Sahib, emphasize universal love, equality, and selfless service.
“Awal Allah Noor Upaya Kudrat Ke Sab Bande,” meaning “We are all created by the One who is formless, colorless, and shapeless,” was a key message shared during the celebration.
The community urged everyone to embrace Guru Nanak’s teachings by spreading love, helping others, and meditating on God’s name. As Pa Jetty remarked, “This celebration is not just a religious event but a reflection of Guru Nanak’s values of compassion and humanity.”
The celebration also included a series of programs held on the evenings of November 14 and 15 at Shri Gurudwara Sahib, 18B Freetown Road, Lumley. Devotees from various backgrounds participated with devotion, reaffirming the Sikh faith’s message of inclusivity and oneness.
Shri Gurudwara Sahib’s commitment to cultural and social work continues to strengthen community bonds, making Guru Nanak’s 555th birth anniversary a memorable and impactful occasion in Sierra Leone.
The celebration concluded with a call to embody Guru Nanak’s teachings in everyday life by spreading love, helping the needy, and meditating on God’s name. “Let us honor Guru Nanak’s legacy by living harmoniously and working towards a better future,” Pa Jetty said.
The two-day event featured devotional programs, prayers, and a warm invitation for all community members to partake in the festivities and blessings. Meals were also distributed at various points in the city to ensure inclusivity and widespread participation in the celebrations.
Through acts of service, devotion, and unity, the Sikh community in Sierra Leone continues to preserve and spread the timeless values of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.