Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is one of the most sacred and widely celebrated festivals in Sikhism. It marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh faith and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. Observed with deep reverence and devotion by Sikhs around the world, this auspicious day is more than just a religious celebration—it's a tribute to the life, teachings, and spiritual legacy of a great reformer and visionary.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s core teachings emphasized equality, compassion, humility, and the oneness of God, transcending all barriers of caste, religion, and social status. His message of “Ik Onkar” (One Supreme Reality) laid the foundation of Sikh philosophy and continues to inspire millions globally.
The celebrations begin with Akhand Path (a 48-hour non-stop reading of the Guru Granth Sahib), followed by Nagar Kirtans—processions led by the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved
Ones), featuring devotional singing, martial arts displays, and spiritual hymns. Gurudwaras are beautifully decorated, offering langar (community meals) to people of all backgrounds, symbolizing the Sikh principle of selfless service.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is not only a spiritual observance but also a powerful reminder of harmony, humanity, and truth. As the world increasingly seeks unity and peace, the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji hold timeless relevance across all walks of life.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji Jayanti 2025 Date
Guru Nanak Dev Ji Jayanti in 2025 will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 5th. This sacred occasion marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, and is observed with great devotion and spiritual fervor by Sikh communities around the world.
History of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, born in 1469 in Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan), was the founder of Sikhism and the first Sikh Guru. From a young age, he showed deep spiritual wisdom, questioning religious rituals and advocating for equality and compassion. At age 30, Guru Nanak experienced a divine revelation, which led him to spread the message that "There is no Hindu, there is no Muslim," promoting unity and devotion to one God.
Over 20 years, Guru Nanak travelled widely, sharing his teachings of equality, love, and truth. He opposed idol worship, caste divisions, and religious dogma, emphasising honest living, remembering God, and helping others. His hymns, later included in the Guru Granth Sahib, laid the foundation of Sikhism.
Before his death in 1539, Guru Nanak appointed Guru Angad Dev Ji as his successor, ensuring the continuation of his teachings. His legacy lives on through Sikhism's core values of equality, service, and devotion.
Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught and asked his followers to serve humanity and be good humans first before being a good Hindu or a good Muslim. According to him, there are no Hindus and no Muslims, there are just humans, and serving humanity is the only religion. He also emphasised making an effort to escape the human traits that give rise to evil thoughts for others like ego, anger, lust, greed, and attachment.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was also monotheistic, and he believed that God is timeless, shapeless, and invisible. Apart from these beliefs, he was also an advocate of speaking the truth at all times, praying for everyone’s good, and helping the needy and unfortunate brothers and sisters.
How is Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti Celebrated In India
The celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, are marked with great devotion and enthusiasm across India, especially in regions with a significant Sikh population. The festival is celebrated with various religious and community-based activities that reflect the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev.
- Akhand Path: The celebrations often begin with a continuous 48-hour reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, known as the Akhand Path. This recitation happens in Gurdwaras and homes, where devotees gather to listen and seek blessings.
- Nagar Kirtan: A grand procession called Nagar Kirtan is held a day before the actual Gurpurab. Sikhs march through the streets singing hymns, carrying the Sikh flag (Nishan Sahib), and displaying martial arts skills, also known as 'Gatka.' The procession is led by the 'Panj Pyare' (five beloved ones) and is a sight of devotion and unity.
- Kirtan and Prayers in Gurdwaras: On the day of Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti, special prayers and Kirtans (devotional songs) are organised in Gurdwaras. The Sikh holy scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, is beautifully decorated, and devotees visit to listen to the teachings and offer prayers.
- Langar: One of the most important aspects of the celebration is the 'Langar,' a community kitchen where free meals are served to everyone, regardless of their religion, caste, or background. It reflects Guru Nanak’s message of equality and selfless service.
- Charitable Activities: Many Sikh communities engage in acts of charity during the festival. Free medical camps, blood donation drives, and the distribution of food and clothing to the needy are common ways to honour Guru Nanak's message of compassion and service.
- Illuminations and Decorations: Gurdwaras and homes are beautifully illuminated with lights and candles. In cities like Amritsar, the Golden Temple looks stunning, lit up with thousands of lamps and lights, making it a spectacular sight on this holy occasion.
Guru Nanak Gurupurab Food
Many sweet dishes are prepared as prasad to be distributed among the visitors, especially on Gurupurab. Kada Prashad is one of the mouth-watering sweet dishes that is served in every Gurdwara throughout the year. This dish is made with sugar, desi ghee, and wheat flour. For afternoon langar (community lunch), urad and chana dal are prepared, which has flavours of local Indian spices and a divine taste. Chana dal khichdi, Meethe Chawal, rajma Chawal and Amritsari kulcha are also prepared in every household and in some Gurdwaras.
How to Reach
Although Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti is celebrated in every village, district, and city in Punjab, one
may visit Golden Temple in Amritsar to witness the festivities, rituals, and customs in full bloom.The city is well connected to various modes of transportation such as airways,railways, and roadways. Amritsar is nearly 450 km via NH 44, 1,700km via NH 48, 1900 km via NH 19, and 2,600km via NH 44 from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru, respectively.
By Air
Shri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport is the nearest airport to the Golden temple. The airport receives direct and connecting flights from all parts of India and abroad, hence finding flights and making reservations would not be a problem. From the airport, one has to travel another 13 km in a taxi, or a bus to reach the temple.
By Train
Amritsar Junction railway station, which is 2km away from the golden temple, is the nearest. From the station, one may take locally available transportation such as a taxi, auto, or bus to reach the Golden Temple. The station receives trains from all parts of the country; hence, one will not come across any inconvenience while booking train tickets. Tourists arriving from Delhi may consider travelling by Shane Punjab or Shaheed Express, from Mumbai by Paschim Express, and from Kolkata by Durgiana Express.
By Road
If you wish to travel by roadways one may either book inter-state tourist buses to reach Amritsar or may drive to the city in a personal vehicle. Bus fares for a single passenger start from Rs.400 which may go up to Rs.1000 and above in case you select Volvo buses that are equipped with various facilities. Direct buses from Delhi to Amritsar take approximately 7 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions about Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti
Q1: Why do we celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti?
A1: Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated to honor the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. His teachings on equality, oneness of God, and selfless service continue to guide and inspire millions across the world.
Q2: What happened on 15 April 1469?
A2: On 15 April 1469, Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan). His birth marked the beginning of a spiritual revolution that emphasized universal brotherhood, devotion, and compassion.
Q3: Why is November 27 a holiday?
A3: November 27 may be observed as a holiday in some years if it coincides with Guru Nanak Jayanti or another regional festival. The exact date of the holiday varies each year based on the lunar calendar. (Note: In 2025, Guru Nanak Jayanti falls on November 5.)
Q4: Which Sikh Guru's birthday is today?
A4: To know which Sikh Guru’s birthday is today, one must refer to the Sikh religious calendar (Nanakshahi or lunar calendar) or current official announcements from Gurudwaras, as Guru Jayantis vary each year.
Q5: What is the festival of Guru?
A5: The festival of the Guru, commonly known as Gurpurab, celebrates the birth anniversaries of the ten Sikh Gurus, especially Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and commemorates their teachings, lives, and contributions to humanity.
