Guru Nanak Jayanti

Guru Nanak Gurpurab, the festival commemorating the birth of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak, falls on the full moon day of the month of Kartik (Kartik Purnima).

History

Guru Nanak was born in 1469 in Rai Bhoi di Talwandi (present-day Nankana Sahib, near Lahore). His teachings were influenced by the Bhakti movement and Sufi mysticism, emphasizing devotion, asceticism, and social reform. Guru Nanak opposed caste discrimination, elaborate religious rituals, and religious intolerance. Today, the festival is celebrated across modern India with great joy.

Interesting Facts

• Guru Nanak acknowledged the Hindu belief in transmigration of the soul but condemned idol worship.
• In gurdwaras (Sikh temples), there are no images of deities or living beings.
• Sikh art often depicts the Gurus, though they are not worshipped as idols.
• The village of Kartarpur (Dera Baba Nanak) is where Guru Nanak spent his final years; it is now a major pilgrimage site.
• He established the langar (community kitchen) to promote equality and community service.

How to Take Part

The celebration begins with a three-day ceremony called “Akhand Path,” during which the Guru Granth Sahib is read continuously without interruption. On the final day, a large stage is set up where devotees sing hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib, carry religious flags in procession, and share meals (langar) at the gurdwara.

When is Guru Nanak Jayanti in 2025?

Guru Nanak Jayanti is observed on the full moon day of Kartik.

Observations