Khandar, the circle with the dagger and the two swords, is the Sikh symbol: the circle because God is infinite, and the sword as a reminder of the Sikhs' defense of their faith and of the right to defend religious freedom.
Most Sikhs use the Western Christian calendar, though some count the years according to Hindu tradition while others reckon from Guru Nanak's birth in 1469. According to them, this year is 531 until November 11, 2000.
Guru Nanak's birthday is celebrated by Sikhs the world over with readings, singing, prayer and festive meals. Guru Nanak is the most important of the Sikhs' ten gurus and the founder of Sikhism.
