New Delhi
Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday batted for an alternative model of society based on “truth” and “universal responsibility” at a time when the world is afflicted with debilitating challenges.

Speaking at a function organised by National Institute of Panjab Studies in commemoration of yearlong celebrations of the coming 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, Singh underlined that the ideals and teachings of the first Sikh Guru were relevant today.
The institute is a non-government organisation devoted to promotion of language, literature and culture of Punjab. Singh is its incumbent president.

Singh identified unchecked exploitation of natural resources, growing race for arms, continued exploitation of poor by the rich and growing environmental degradation as the challenges.

He stressed that on the need to pause and revisit his legacy and its relevance to present times, which include inter-faith harmony and goodwill.

The function included inauguration of an exhibition on the Guru’s life and legacy titled “Rahbar-E-Aalam”, which was inaugurated by the Dalai Lama. An impressive gallery of paintings relating to anecdotes from the Guru’s life and his spiritual odyssey was put on display.

The exhibition was thronged by the audiences comprising spiritual leaders from different faiths, spiritual leaders, Sikh intellectuals and dignitaries from social and political field.

Goswami dwelt on secular values defining in Guru’s teachings, and practices.

Preceding Singh’s speech, the Dalai Lama addressed the gathering saying that on account of the welter of ancient spiritual knowledge and transcendental values, India is the only country which can impart knowledge on holistic and meaningful existence, and concept of inner peace to the world which is blighted by materialism.

“The present world is torn asunder due to fissiparous issue emanating from differences on basis of religion and faiths,” the Tibetan spiritual leader said.