2023 · GS Paper 4 · Q6(a) · 10 marks
What were the major teachings of Guru Nanak? Explain their relevance in the contemporary world.
In short
Guru Nanak taught one God, equality beyond caste and gender, honest work, sharing and service, and these answer today's polarisation, corruption and inequality. His langar tradition lived on when gurdwara kitchens fed stranded migrants during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 268 words
Ik Onkar
God is one and beyond religious labels, so every human shares the same light.
Equality of all
He rejected caste and began the langar, where all sit in one row and eat the same food.
Dignity of women
In Asa di Var he asked why woman is called inferior when kings are born of her.
Answer to polarisation
Amid religious and online hate, Ik Onkar offers respect for many paths, which the Kartarpur Corridor put into practice.
Ethics of work
Kirat Karni rejects rent-seeking and corruption, while Vand Chhakna anticipates Trusteeship and CSR under section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013.
Seva in crises
Gurdwara langars fed stranded migrants and patients during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown.
Gender and ecology
His defence of women supports equal participation, and the Japji Sahib's verse calling air the guru, water the father and earth the great mother speaks to climate ethics.
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2023 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.