Guru Nanak Jayanti

On the full moon in the month of Kartik, the festival of Guru Nanak Gurpurab is celebrated, commemorating the birth of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak. In 2022, it falls on November 30th.

History

Guru Nanak was born in 1469 near the city of Lahore. His teachings were influenced by Bhakti and Sufi views, which were based on mysticism, asceticism and reforms. Guru Nanak opposed caste strife, overly complicated religious rituals, and the intolerance of Muslim rulers. This holiday is celebrated in modern India with much joy.

Interesting facts

• Guru Nanak acknowledges Hindu teachings of transmigration of the soul, but condemns the worship of idols.
• In Sikh temples, there are no images of deities or people.
• Artwork may depict deities and people, as per Guru Nanak’s teachings.
• Dera Baba Nanak is the center where Guru Nanak lived, preached, and died, and is now a place of pilgrimage.

How to take part

The celebration begins with an important ceremony lasting three days, called “Akhand path”. During this time, the Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy book, is read without interruption. On the final day, a huge platform is erected where adherents perform songs from the holy book, march with flags, and gather for meals at the Gurudwara temple.

When is Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrated in 2023?

Guru Nanak Jayanti is observed on November 30 each year.

Observations