Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is celebrated worldwide by Sikhs and devotees of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. This festival, marking Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary, is observed on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik (October-November), a period considered highly auspicious. In 2024, the occasion falls on November 15. The celebration is a profound tribute to Guru Nanak’s teachings, emphasizing the principles of unity, equality, compassion, and devotion to the Divine.
Historical Background
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Talwandi, a village near Lahore, now in Pakistan. His birth took place during a period marked by religious conflicts, caste discrimination, and socio-political upheaval. From an early age, he showed a keen spiritual awareness and questioned the rigid norms of the society around him. His journey toward self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment began in his youth, leading him to ultimately reject the established norms and traditions of the time.
Guru Nanak undertook several long journeys, or “Udasis,” to spread his teachings across India, Tibet, and parts of Arabia. During these travels, he engaged in discussions with religious leaders of diverse backgrounds, including Hindus, Muslims, Jains, and Buddhists, fostering a philosophy rooted in universal brotherhood and the oneness of God. These teachings were later compiled into the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikhs, and form the foundation of Sikhism today.
Celebrations and Rituals
The celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti begins days before the actual date with various events and rituals, including the Akhand Path, a continuous 48-hour reading of the Guru Granth Sahib. The reading is conducted at Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) and in some homes, marking a spiritual preparation for the day.
A day before Guru Nanak Jayanti, devotees organize a Nagar Kirtan (a religious procession) in many regions. The procession is led by the five beloved ones, or Panj Pyare, who carry the Sikh flag, Nishan Sahib, and the Guru Granth Sahib on a decorated float. Musicians, devotees, and performers follow, singing hymns and verses that honor Guru Nanak’s life and teachings. The procession creates a vibrant atmosphere, filled with reverence and devotion, as people of all ages participate, celebrating the inclusive spirit of Sikhism.
On the day of Guru Nanak Jayanti, the celebrations at Gurdwaras begin early in the morning with the recitation of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib, often followed by a discourse on Guru Nanak’s life, wisdom, and humanitarian philosophy. Devotees sing Asa di Vaar, a morning hymn, and other kirtans (hymns), which resonate with the values of compassion, selflessness, and humility taught by the Guru. The community kitchen, or Langar, is an essential part of the celebration. Langar embodies Guru Nanak’s principle of seva (selfless service) and equality, as it serves meals to everyone, regardless of religion, caste, or social status.
The Teachings of Guru Nanak
Guru Nanak’s teachings are simple, profound, and relevant across eras. His core message was the oneness of God, who he believed was formless and omnipresent. He advocated a life of humility, sincerity, and selfless service. His concept of Naam Japna (reciting God’s name), Kirat Karni (honest living), and Vand Chakna (sharing with others) encapsulates a holistic way of living that brings individuals closer to divinity and goodness.
One of Guru Nanak’s most significant contributions was his opposition to the caste system, which was deeply rooted in Indian society at the time. He believed in the inherent equality of all individuals and urged people to see the divine in every being. His teachings called for harmony, urging people to respect each other’s faiths, fostering a culture of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
Conclusion
Guru Nanak Jayanti is not merely a celebration of Guru Nanak’s birth but a reiteration of his ideals, which continue to guide millions toward a path of righteousness and spiritual fulfillment. His legacy of compassion, unity, and devotion transcends religious boundaries, making Guru Nanak Jayanti a universal celebration of humanity’s higher values. Through this festival, devotees honor the Guru’s memory, passing down his message of love, unity, and service to future generations.
