Scholars discuss Gurbani interpretation

Amritsar, Punjab: The Centre of Studies in Sri Guru Granth Sahib of Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) organised a special symposium on “Gurbani interpretation: Problems and possibilities” at its conference hall today. The seminar was dedicated to Sthapana Diwas (installation day) of Sri Guru Granth Sahib.

The conference was presided over by GNDU Vice-Chancellor (VC), Prof AS Brar, and inaugurated by Bhai Ashok Singh Bagrian from Chandigarh. A large number of scholars and residents were present on the occasion.

Prof Balwant Singh Dhillon, coordinator and director of the centre, welcomed the chief guest and others. Prof Balkar Singh from Patiala delivered the keynote address. Prof Jagbir Singh from Delhi also attended the programme.

Prof Brar said, “Sri Guru Granth Sahib is the supreme spiritual authority and only holy scripture of the world which has been given the status of ‘Guruship’.” He said, “Gurbani is ‘dhur ki Bani’ and reveals through Gurus along with saints and bhagats. In Sri Guru Granth Sahib, there is ‘Bani’ which proclaims God, lays emphasis on meditation, besides stressing on moral and ethical rules for the development of the soul and spiritual salvation. The teachings of Sri Guru Granth Sahib are not only for the Sikhs, but also for the whole humanity.”

The VC said the under-construction building of the Centre of Studies in Sri Guru Granth Sahib would likely be completed in November. “This building is being designed keeping in view the Sikh architecture and is being constructed by funds provided by the UGC. With the establishment of this centre, more in-depth study of Sri Guru Granth Sahib along with other religions, will be done”, added Prof Brar.

Prof Balkar Singh said the method for the interpretation of Gurbani was already included in Sri Guru Granth Sahib. “The utmost need is to understand the Bani in its true letter and spirit and to adopt it in our daily life,” he added.

In his inaugural address, Bhai Ashok Singh Bagrian emphasised upon the correct understanding of the terminology described in the Sikh scripture, so that it may not deface its original sense.

Bhag Singh Ankhi, Dr Sashi Bala and Waryam Singh also expressed their views while presiding over the different panels of the symposium.

Dr Balwant Singh Dhillon presented his paper on Gurbani interpretation: Interdisciplinary approach. Dr N Muthumohan discussed interpreting Sri Guru Granth Sahib in the Hindu context.

Dr Paramjit Singh Sidhu and Dr Gulzar Singh Kang also presented their papers on the occasion.

Source: The Tribune