During our childhood, our mother used to share with us a story about Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Guru of the Sikhs. When Guru Nanak reached an age where his father, Shri Kalu Mehta, felt it was time for him to learn about business and trade, he gave him Rs 20, a significant amount in the 15th century, and instructed him to engage in beneficial and ethical trade (Sacha Sauda) in a nearby town. Accompanied by his companions, Guru Nanak set off for the town. Along the way, they encountered a group of hungry individuals who had not eaten for days. Moved by their plight, Guru Nanak decided to use the entire sum of money to provide them with meals. His father was furious at this unconventional trade, but Guru Nanak replied, “What could be a better deal than feeding the hungry?”
Even today, we have such kind-hearted individuals in our society who go out of their way to assist those in need without expecting any reward. They selflessly help others and never seek recognition or publicity for their efforts. Unfortunately, the media often focuses on sensational news like crimes and scandals and neglects to highlight the noble deeds of these unsung heroes.
I recall a story my daughter shared with me years ago when she was studying at Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 2 in New Delhi back in 1993. Reflecting on the sensationalized news we see today, I felt compelled to mention the efforts of these unknown heroes who work silently for the betterment of society. In my daughter’s school, there was a married couple who were both teachers. Despite having few material possessions and not even owning a scooter, they lived happily and contentedly. They resided in the staff quarters provided by the school. Every Sunday, the wife would prepare breakfast for ten children, while her husband would cycle to a nearby impoverished neighborhood and invite ten underprivileged kids to join them. The couple would personally feed these children and find immense joy in doing so. This became their weekly ritual. Despite their modest income, they would save money to purchase inexpensive clothes to distribute to the children in the slums during festivals like Diwali or Eid. Whenever a needy student couldn’t afford a good book or required assistance, this teacher couple would always lend a helping hand. In an era where some teachers prioritize private tuition for personal gain rather than teaching students adequately in school, this remarkable couple provided free extra coaching sessions at their home for academically weak students. When my daughter asked the lady teacher why they did all this, her response was, “We have no children of our own, so every poor or needy child is like our own child, and above all, it brings us peace of mind and happiness.”
Undoubtedly, there are many more such individuals in society whom I am unaware of. May God bless these unknown and unsung pillars of society who engage in “Sacha Sauda,” the true trade of selflessness and compassion.
Guchi.
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