Commemorating Guru Nanak’s 550th Anniversary: Planting a Mighty Oak
In November 2020, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Harrow Sikhs community ( now known as Northwest London Sikhs) found a meaningful way to commemorate Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s 550th birth anniversary. While restrictions kept us from gathering as we normally would, we wanted to honour Guru Ji’s timeless values of love, devotion to God, and service to all beings in a way that resonated with the spirit of the times.
We chose to plant a mighty oak tree—a symbol that perfectly embodies the values taught by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The oak provides shelter to animals and birds, food to many, and shade to humans. It stands as a source of life and sustenance, offering refuge and support to all without discrimination—just as Guru Ji did throughout his life.
The planting took place in Pinner Village Gardens, and it was no small task. The 13-foot sapling, with its large root ball heavy with clay, required tremendous effort from our members to plant. The task was made even more challenging by heavy rains that left the ground waterlogged and muddy. At one point, the tree had to be replanted after the initial site flooded. Despite the physical demands and the difficult conditions, the team persevered, embodying the spirit of Seva (selfless service) that Guru Nanak Dev Ji inspired in us all.
Today, the oak tree stands tall, a living tribute to Guru Ji’s teachings and a reminder of our commitment to nurturing the environment and serving the community. Members continue to visit the tree, ensuring it thrives and grows into the strong and enduring symbol we envisioned.
We hope this oak tree will not only serve as a sanctuary for birds, animals, and people but will also remind future generations of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message of universal love, equality, and harmony with nature.
