Guru Nanak Jayanti – Gurupurab (Celebrating the birth of Sikhism’s eternal light)
Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrates the birth of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He is known to be the founder of Sikhism. It is one of the most sacred festivals of Sikhs. The birth anniversaries of 10 Sikh Gurus are celebrated as Gurupurabs. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Rai-Bhoi-Di Talwandi in the present-day Shekhupura District of Pakistan. The celebration usually occurs on the full moon day, Purnima or Pooranmashi, of the lunar month of Kartik. Guru Nanak Dev Ji traveled across Asia to spread his message of universal brotherhood and devotion to one god. He rejected caste divisions, superstitions, and empty rituals, inspiring people to lead a righteous, honest, and simple life.
How is Guru Nanak Jayanti – Gurupurab celebrated?
Prabhat Phereis are organized, which are early morning processions that begin at the Gurudwaras, start two days before Gurupurab. They are early morning processions.
48-hour non-stop Akhand Path (non-stop reading of Guru Granth Sahib) takes place in Gurudwaras.
A day before Gurupurab. Nagarkirtans are held. Panj Pyaras (five beloved ones) carry it out. The Panj Pyaras carry out the procession with Nishan Sahib (the Sikh flag) and the Palki(palanquin) of Guru Granth Sahib. There are singers who sing hymns in a chorus. There are brass bands, teams that display swordsmanship through martial arts, and mock battles using traditional weapons. The procession goes through the town, and people join in singing the hymns.
On the day of Guru Nanak Jayanti, Gurudwaras are beautifully lit. Celebrations commence early morning at around 4-5 A.M, which is known as Amrit Vela. Morning hymns (Asaa-ki-vaar), kirtan, and Katha are done, followed by langar (community lunch).
Langar is the community lunch organized by Gurudwara volunteers, where everyone, irrespective of caste, creed, or gender, is offered food on the same ground in the same plates.
At night, prayers are offered, beginning at sunset with rehras (evening prayers). At 1:20 A.M., Gurubani takes place. This is the exact time when Guru Nanak Devi Ji was born. The prayers culminate around 2:00 A.M.
Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Some of the timeless teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, which remain relevant even today:
- Ik Onkar – There is only god. God is omnipresent, beyond form, and resides in every heart.
- Serve humanity selflessly. Helping others is the purest form of worship.
- Live truthfully (Kirat Karni) and honestly. Honest living brings peace and prosperity.
- Vand Chakna teaches us to give before taking. Share with others.
- Respect all religions. Every path that leads to love and truth is divine.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is not just a celebration; it’s a reminder to live with humility, love, and righteousness. His teachings tend to instill harmony and compassion among all.
As we celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti, let’s remember Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s eternal message:
Naam Japo, Kirat Karo, Vand Chhako
(Chant the name of God, work honestly, share what you earn)
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