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Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is one of the most significant festivals in Sikhism. It commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh faith. This auspicious occasion is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm by Sikhs all over the world. Guru Nanak Jayanti is a day of reflection, prayer, and community service, emphasising the core principles of Sikhism.
When is Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrated?
Guru Nanak Jayanti festival is celebrated on the full moon day of the Kartik month, according to the Hindu lunar calendar.
In 2024, this falls on Friday, November 15th.
The date varies each year based on the lunar cycle, but always holds profound spiritual significance for the Sikh community.
About Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan). He was a spiritual leader and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. His teachings laid the foundation of Sikhism, emphasising the importance of equality, love, compassion, and selfless service. Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrates his life and teachings, reminding followers of his message of unity and devotion to God.
Celebrations of Guru Nanak Jayanti
The celebrations of Guru Nanak Jayanti are marked by a series of events and rituals that span several days. Here are the key elements of the festivities:
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Akhand Path
The celebration typically begins with an Akhand Path, a continuous, uninterrupted reading of the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of Sikhism) over 48 hours. This takes place at Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) and homes, signifying devotion and reverence for the Guru's teachings.
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Prabhat Pheris
In the days leading up to the festival, early morning processions known as Prabhat Pheris are organised. Devotees sing hymns and visit nearby neighbourhoods, spreading the message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and inviting people to join the celebrations.
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Kirtan and Katha
On the day of Guru Nanak Jayanti, special assemblies are held at Gurdwaras where devotees gather to listen to Kirtan (devotional songs) and Katha (discourses) that narrate the life and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. These sessions are often accompanied by the singing of Gurbani (sacred hymns) and are attended by large numbers of devotees.
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Langar
One of the most important aspects of Guru Nanak Jayanti is the community kitchen, or Langar, which serves free meals to all, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion. This practice embodies the principles of selfless service (Seva) and equality that Guru Nanak Dev Ji championed. The preparation and serving of Langar involve volunteers from the community, emphasising collective effort and humility.
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Nagar Kirtan
On the day of Guru Nanak Jayanti, a grand procession known as Nagar Kirtan is held. The procession is led by the Panj Pyare (the five beloved ones) and includes a float carrying the Guru Granth Sahib. Devotees sing hymns, perform Gatka (a traditional Sikh martial art), and distribute sweets and refreshments along the way. The Nagar Kirtan is a vibrant and joyful expression of devotion and community spirit.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024: A National and Government Holiday
In India, Guru Nanak Jayanti is a government holiday, which means it is a public holiday recognised by the government. Schools, colleges, government offices, and many private organisations are closed on this day, allowing people to participate in the festivities as Guru Nanak Jayanti is a national holiday.
| Occasion | Day & Date | States |
|---|---|---|
| Guru Nanak Jayanti | Friday, 15th November | Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Jharkhand and West Bengal |
| Occasion | Day & Date | States |
|---|---|---|
| Guru Nanak Jayanti | Friday, 15th November | Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Jharkhand and West Bengal |
The Message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Guru Nanak Dev Ji's teachings are centred around the principles of simplicity, equality, and devotion to God. He preached against the ritualistic practices of the time and emphasised the importance of inner devotion and the realisation of God through honest living and selfless service.
Some of the core messages of Guru Nanak Dev Ji include:
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Ek Onkar
There is only one God, who is the eternal truth, present in all creation.
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Equality
All human beings are equal, irrespective of caste, creed, gender, or religion.
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Seva and Simran
Selfless service and remembrance of God are the pathways to spiritual fulfilment.
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Honest Living
Earn a livelihood through honest means and share with those in need.
The Relevance of Guru Nanak Jayanti Today
Guru Nanak Dev Ji's teachings continue to resonate strongly, even today. His messages of equality, compassion, and selfless service are universal values that transcend religious and cultural boundaries. Guru Nanak Jayanti is not only a time for Sikhs to reaffirm their faith but also an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to reflect on these enduring principles.
Celebrating Harmony
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024 will be a day of profound spiritual significance and communal harmony. As Sikhs and others around the world come together to honour the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the celebrations will reflect his timeless teachings of love, equality, and devotion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, Guru Nanak Jayanti is a government holiday celebrated in many states. It is an off day for the general public, which means that schools and banks are closed.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated to honour the birth and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Born in 1469, Guru Nanak emphasised equality, love, compassion, and selfless service.
The celebration involves prayer sessions, hymns, communal meals (Langar), and processions, reflecting his messages of unity and devotion to God. It is a time for Sikhs and others to reflect on his profound spiritual teachings and promote his vision of unity and peace.
Yes, Guru Nanak Jayanti is typically a bank holiday in several states in India.
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