New Delhi, Oct 30 (IANS): Guru Nanak's teachings are the guiding principles not only for Indians but for the entire humanity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday.

In his 'Mann Ki Baat' address on the occasion of Diwali, Modi recalled how Guru Nanak's life and teachings hold a message for people even today.

"Kartik Purnima is celebrated as the Prakash Parv or birthday of Guru Nanak Devji. His teachings are the guiding principles not only for Indians but for the entire humanity.

"Principle of service, truthfulness and welfare of all are the core of his teachings," he added.

"Peace, unity and tolerance is the basic principle. To free the society of discrimination, blind faith and other evils was the campaign of Guru Nanak's life.

"At the time when casteism and untouchability were at its peak, Guru Nanak Dev chose Bhai Lalo as his companion," Modi added.

Bhai Lalo was a carpenter by profession and Guru Nanak chose food from his house over food from a rich government official.

Drawing a parallel between Guru Nanak's teachings and his government's motto, Modi said: "Guru Nanak Dev's teachings inspire us to shun discrimination of all kind. 'Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas' is the way forward and no one can be a better guide than Guru Nanak Dev."