550 musicians attempt world record for Sikh anniversary

550 musicians and a choir will perform a special piece of music at Birmingham's Central Library to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji who is the founder of Sikhism.

The anniversary is on the 12th November and is one of a number of events are happening across the region this month including processions and parades in Leicester, Smethwick, Coventry and Birmingham.

The anniversary is on the 12th November and is one of a number of events are happening across the region Credit: PA

The multi-faith ensemble of 550 musicians and choir is hoping to break a world record and raise money for Children In Need.

About Guru Nanak Dev Ji:

  • Guru Nanak was born in Punjab in northern India in 1469.

  • His core message was the universality of God

  • The literal meaning of word Sikh is student, whilst Guru means teacher.

  • Guru Nanak travelled extensively during his lifetime, advocating equal rights for women, and condemning the caste system, the hypocrisy of false rituals and superstitions.

  • For Sikhs, Guru Nanak was a delightful poet, a challenging philosopher, a mystical saint and a polemic thinker.

  • Central to Sikh philosophy is the recognition of humanity as one.