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Abstract
The present paper is planned to pose some questions and queries in the context of the present times in order to understand, explore, and discuss Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s philosophy and teachings and its relevance in the contemporary scenario. Nowadays when the world is engaged in unstoppable development and advancement in almost each sphere of life, Guru Ji’s philosophy can open up new spaces for literary and cultural discussions. Such a discussion can raise some controversial issues. Raising these questions is a means to rescue Guru Ji’s teaching from the mainstream Sikhism (which is heavily political-oriented) and its rigid view of Guru Ji’s bani (writings). The rigidity and conventionality of any society / culture / religion and region are crucial factors which confine the potentiality of an intellectual / philosopher / saint (Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the present context) to certain limitations and restrictive definitions. On the other hand an academic, literary, and educational understanding of the concerned intellectual transcend those boundaries and try to explore as many aspects as possible. Some questions can be asked in this regard: Can we understand Guru Ji and his philosophy apart from the mainstream Sikhism which is prevalent nowadays? Talking about the inclusiveness of Guru Ji’s philosophy of life / religion / society, how far can we believe this inclusiveness is enacted?