Sunday, March 17, 2013

"God Is One" — A Traveller's Reflection




I often wonder—why do people keep fighting in the name of religion?

Even after all these years, I still don't understand the stimulus behind it.

Maybe the problem lies in my upbringing—or perhaps, the blessing. I was born in an Aggarwal family, raised in an Aggarwal-Jain culture, drawn towards Sikhism, surrounded by wonderful Muslim friends, and always curious about Christianity. My father never stopped me from exploring. He was a rebel in his own way—believing deeply in humanity. His simple belief was this:
All religions teach good things. It’s humans who interpret them as per their convenience.
He never cared for society’s orthodox expectations—and thanks to him, I was given the freedom to experience all religions with an open heart and mind.

Over time, I’ve visited sacred places across India and found his words to be true.

Hemkund Sahib – A Journey of Faith
Sikhism always had a magnetic pull on me. I still don’t know why. Between 2008 and 2010, I visited almost all the prominent Sikh spiritual sites. It all began at the Golden Temple (Amritsar)—a place where I first understood the profound meaning of Seva (selfless service). The peace I felt there was indescribable.

Then came Hemkund Sahib, tucked away at 14,200 feet in the Himalayas. Accessible only on foot, it taught me what true devotion and commitment feel like. There were no distractions—just pure reverence for the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and the other Gurus.
My journey didn’t stop there—Dukh Nivaran Sahib (Patiala), Bangla Sahib (Delhi), and more followed. Each visit deepened my faith.
"Satnam Waheguru."

The Beauty of Islam – Through Friendship
I was blessed with friends who opened doors to their world—especially those who followed Islam. They introduced me to the values of the Quran, the principles of equality and devotion, and the beauty of Ramadan.
I visited mosques with them, including Jama Masjid, and finally understood the deeper meaning of Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and the rituals of Iftar.

Although I missed out on many delicacies due to my vegetarian preferences, the warmth, love, and unity I witnessed during those moments nourished me far more.

No Labels. Just Humanity.
I won’t elaborate much on Hinduism or Jainism here—not because they’re less important—but because the intent of this post is to reaffirm one truth: “God is One.”

When you begin to explore with curiosity and humility, every path leads to the same source. You don’t need external approval to connect with the divine—your inner voice is enough.

Life is short. And none of us knows what comes next. So why wait? Be an ambassador of humanity—not of division.

You will feel the magic of God when you let go of the labels, the fear, and the noise. Just walk the path, heart open, with faith.

Let me end with two beautiful lines by Satinder Sartaj:
“Sai ve saadi fariyaad tere taai, sai ve bahon farh beera bane laai
Sai ve meriyan gunaha nu lukaai, sai ve hakk vich faisle sunaai.”

God is One. God is All. Walk in Love.

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