Guru Nanak Jayanti: Celebrating the Life and Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is one of the most important festivals for Sikhs worldwide. This sacred day celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Guru and founder of Sikhism. His teachings continue to inspire millions of people, promoting values of equality, humility, and compassion.
When is Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrated?
Guru Nanak Jayanti usually falls in November, on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Kartik month according to the Hindu calendar. In 2024, Guru Nanak Jayanti will be observed on November 15th. The day is celebrated with devotion and joy, as Sikhs and followers around the world remember the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Why Do We Celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti?
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, born in 1469 in Nankana Sahib (now in Pakistan). He dedicated his life to spreading the message of universal brotherhood, equality, and spiritual awakening. Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrates his life, his wisdom, and the path of righteousness he showed humanity. For Sikhs, it’s not just a day of celebration but an opportunity to reflect on Guru Nanak’s teachings and principles, which emphasize service, humility, and a selfless love for humanity.
What Are the Teachings of Guru Nanak?
Guru Nanak’s teachings are simple, yet profound. His key messages include:
- Ek Onkar – There is only one God: Guru Nanak taught that God is everywhere, formless, and within every soul. His message of Ek Onkar (One God) inspired people to look beyond religious divisions and understand the oneness of humanity.
- Sewa and Simran – Service and meditation: Guru Nanak emphasized the importance of serving others selflessly (sewa). And remembering God through meditation (simran). He believed that both practices are essential for spiritual growth and for building a caring society.
- Equality: Guru Nanak was a strong advocate for equality. He believed that all people—regardless of caste, religion, or gender—are equal before God. His teachings and actions, such as organizing langar (community kitchen), ensured that everyone sat and ate together, breaking societal norms of discrimination.
- Honest Living: Guru Nanak encouraged his followers to earn a livelihood through honest means and to share their wealth with the less fortunate. He taught that spiritual life and practical life should go hand in hand, urging people to stay truthful, hardworking, and compassionate.
- Against Superstition: Guru Nanak spoke out against rituals and superstitions that he felt distracted people from genuine spirituality. He encouraged people to connect with God directly rather than through complicated customs.
The Impact of Guru Nanak’s Teachings
Guru Nanak’s teachings have had a lasting impact worldwide. By promoting values of unity, compassion, and honesty, he laid the foundation of Sikhism and inspired millions to follow a life of spirituality and service. His establishment of langar (free community kitchen) in every Sikh temple (Gurdwara) is a tradition that continues to feed millions today, embodying his spirit of serving humanity without discrimination.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s wisdom continues to resonate across religions, encouraging people to live peacefully and care for one another. His teachings provide guidance in today’s world, reminding us to seek unity, reject hatred, and build a more inclusive, understanding society.
Celebrations of Guru Nanak Jayanti
On this day, Gurdwaras are beautifully decorate. The holy book, Guru Granth Sahib, is read continuously for 48 hours in a practice called Akhand Path. Early in the morning, processions are held with hymns, and people participate in kirtans (spiritual songs). Free meals (langar) are offered in every Gurdwara, reflecting Guru Nanak’s message of service and equality.
Celebrating Guru Nanak Jayanti is not just about remembering the past but about living by the values he taught—compassion, humility, and respect for all people.