New Delhi, Nov 22 (IANS): President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday greeted the nation on the eve of Guru Nanak's birthday, saying the life of the founder of Sikhism "teaches us love and harmony".

"Remembering the life and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev, I offer my greetings and good wishes on this sacred occasion to all my fellow citizens, including members of the Sikh community," he said in a statement.

"The life of Guru Nanak Dev teaches us love and harmony. He gave us the mantra of 'Ek Omkar Satnam', which means that there is only One God.

"While emphasising values of love, peace and compassion, Guru Nanak Dev equated service to humanity with service to God.

"His preachings such as 'Vand Chako', sharing with others, 'Kirat Karo', making an honest living, and 'Naam Japo', remembering God at all times, capture the essence of his message.

"Let us resolve to follow the path shown by Guru Nanak Dev and work for the welfare of the society."