GURU NANAK
The founder of Sikhism
Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, was born in a critical period of India's history. On the one hand, people were divided into castes, sects and factions; on the other, the Muslim rulers committed atrocities on the Hindus and other weaker sections of society. Overcome by hardship and misery, the people cried for a saviour. Nanak came as God's messenger in the common man's hour of need.
It was a period of transition from medieval times to modern. Men of action and thought explored the world of matter and spirit. Guru Nanak revealed the secret of man's spiritual potential. Similarly, he accepted life's struggles and hardships and pioneered a movement of reform in social and religious conduct. He reformed the dregs of society through argument, conviction and personal example. His followers, called 'Sikhs', formed a group of God-fearing men and women devoted to the service of the people. He laid down simple rules of conduct through which man could find fulfillment in leading a humane and meaningful life.
Hindus and Muslims alike revered him. His life is an inspiring example of the practice of truth, love and humility.
