The White House celebrated the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak at the White House last week with traditional singing of kirtans [chants] amongst a bevy of guests, and President Barack Obama greeting the community, lauding the contributions of the Sikh community.

Obama, who was not present, said in a statement that was read out at the gathering last Friday, two days before the actual date of the anniversary this year: "On Sunday, many around the world will observe the anniversary of birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism.

"I send my best wishes to all those observing this extraordinary occasion. This is also an opportunity to recognize the many contributions that Sikh Americans have made to our nation, and to reflect on the pluralism that is a hallmark of America.

"Sikhism's principles of equality, service, interfaith cooperation and respect are principles shared by all Americans.

As Sikhs celebrate the birth of Guru Nanak, people of good will everywhere can identify with his teachings on the equality of all humankind and the need for compassion in our service to others."

"President Obama has deep regard for the Sikh community and we are eager to work with you all," said Christina M. Tchen, head of the White House Office of Public Engagement, welcoming some 120 odd guests from all over America, invited to the occasion.

There were performances by Ragi Nirmal Singh Nagpuri, and Sukhjeevan Singh of the Golden Temple, Amritsar.

The select guests included Kiran Ahuja, executive director of the White House Initiative on Asian Americans, actor Kalpen Modi, who is now associate director of the Public Engagement office, Aneesh Chopra, chief technology officer, Pradeep Ramamurthy of National Security Council, and Amardeep Singh, a prominent community leader and White House appointee on an Asian American panel.

In India, President Pratibha Patil, Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh greeted the nation on the occasion.

"On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji, I convey my heartiest greetings to all my fellow citizens. May the great Guru's teachings of peace, harmony and compassion guide us to follow them in our daily lives," Patil said.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said: "By following the teachings of Guru Nanakji, the world can overcome differences and work together to fight ignorance, poverty, hunger and disease," he said. "His divine teachings guide us on the path of social harmony and unity.

"On this joyous occasion let us pray that his ideals of humanism and social equality inspire us to move towards a peaceful and just society," Ansari said.