Guru Nanak, the visionary behind Sikhism, was born on the full moon day of the Kartik month in the year 1469, as per the Vikram Samvat calendar. His birthplace was Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi, situated in the current Shekhupura District of Pakistan, now known as Nankana Sahib. Guru Nanak Dev advocated the idea that individuals could establish a connection with God through worship with a pure conscience. His profound teachings are enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib.

Date of Celebration

Guru Nanak Jayanti falls on the full moon day (Purnima) in the month of Kartika (October-November) according to the Hindu lunar calendar. The date varies each year as it is based on the moon's cycle.

Historical Background of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

• Birth: Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born on 15 April 1469 in Rai Bhoi di Talwandi, a village now known as Nankana Sahib (present-day Pakistan).
• Teachings: Guru Nanak's teachings focused on equality, justice, love, and devotion to one God. He emphasized the importance of Naam Japna (meditation on God's name), Kirat Karni (honest living), and Vand Chakna (sharing with others). He rejected the rigid practices of caste, idol worship, and rituals, advocating for spiritual enlightenment through truth and compassion.
• Travels: Guru Nanak traveled extensively across India, South Asia, and the Middle East, spreading his message of unity and equality. His teachings laid the foundation for the Sikh faith, and his hymns are part of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism.

Significance of Guru Nanak Jayanti

Guru Nanak Jayanti is not only a celebration of the birth of the first Sikh Guru but also a day to reflect on his teachings of love, equality, and universal brotherhood. Sikhs take this day to remember the values Guru Nanak stood for, such as selflessness, humility, and devotion to God.

How Guru Nanak Jayanti is Celebrated

The festival is marked by several important religious and cultural activities that are held in Sikh temples (Gurdwaras) and within the community.

1. Akhand Path

• Akhand Path is a continuous, non-stop reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhism, which lasts for 48 hours. It typically begins two days before the actual Gurpurab.
• This recitation is done at Gurdwaras and homes as an act of devotion, culminating on the day of Guru Nanak Jayanti.

2. Nagarkirtan

• Nagarkirtan is a procession led by the Panj Pyare (the five beloved ones), who carry the Sikh flag (Nishan Sahib) and the Guru Granth Sahib in a decorated palanquin.
• Devotees walk behind the procession, singing hymns and performing Kirtan (devotional songs). The Nagarkirtan also includes martial arts performances, known as Gatka, which showcase the traditional martial art forms of the Sikhs.
• The streets are decorated with flowers, banners, and lights, and the atmosphere is filled with the sounds of devotional songs and chants.

3. Kirtan and Prayers

• On the day of Guru Nanak Jayanti, Kirtan (devotional music) is performed in Gurdwaras and homes. The hymns recited during Kirtan are often verses composed by Guru Nanak and other Sikh Gurus.
• Special prayer services are held, where devotees meditate and reflect on the life and teachings of Guru Nanak.
• Sikhs also recite Asa-di-Var, a composition written by Guru Nanak, in the early morning hours.

4. Langar

• Langar, the community kitchen, is an integral part of the celebration. In keeping with Guru Nanak’s teachings of equality, free meals are served to all, regardless of religion, caste, or background.
• The practice of Langar promotes the idea of seva (selfless service) and sharing. Volunteers prepare, cook, and serve food to thousands of people who visit Gurdwaras on this day.

5. Gurdwara Decorations

• Gurdwaras are beautifully decorated with lights, flowers, and religious banners. Special programs, including lectures on the teachings of Guru Nanak, are organized throughout the day.
• Many devotees also perform Sewa (selfless service) by cleaning the Gurdwara, distributing food, or helping with other community activities.

6. Parades and Cultural Programs

• In many cities, particularly in Punjab and other Sikh-majority regions, grand parades are organized with floats that depict scenes from Guru Nanak's life. These parades are accompanied by Kirtan and traditional music.
• Some places also host cultural programs, including Sikh folk dances like Bhangra and Giddha, to celebrate the joy and significance of the occasion.

Guru Nanak's Teachings and Philosophy

Guru Nanak's teachings focus on spiritual awakening, humanitarian values, and moral integrity. Some of the key messages include:

1. Oneness of God: Guru Nanak taught that there is one God who is the eternal truth. He rejected the division of humanity based on religion, caste, or gender.

   • Famous quote: “Ek Onkar”—There is only one God.

2. Equality: He strongly advocated for the equality of all human beings, regardless of caste, creed, or gender. He condemned the social injustices of his time and promoted the dignity of labor.

   • His emphasis on equality is also reflected in the practice of Langar, where people from all walks of life sit together and share a meal.

3. Kirat Karni (Earn an Honest Living): Guru Nanak encouraged people to lead honest lives through hard work and sincerity. He believed in living a truthful and righteous life.

   • "Truth is high, but higher still is truthful living."

4. Naam Japna (Meditation on God’s Name): Guru Nanak emphasized the importance of meditating on God's name and living a spiritual life. Repeating God's name with devotion brings inner peace and spiritual growth.

5. Vand Chakna (Sharing with Others): He taught the importance of sharing with those who are less fortunate. He believed that material wealth should be used to serve humanity and uplift others.

6. Rejection of Superstition and Rituals: Guru Nanak opposed the rigid rituals, superstitions, and caste-based discrimination prevalent in society at the time. He advocated for a direct relationship with God through devotion and ethical living rather than through rituals.

Importance of Guru Nanak Jayanti in Sikhism

• Guru Nanak Jayanti is not just a celebration of the physical birth of the Guru, but also a time for Sikhs to renew their commitment to his teachings.
• It serves as a reminder of the core values of Sikhism, including truthfulness, equality, service, and spiritual discipline.

Conclusion

Guru Nanak Jayanti holds immense religious and cultural importance for Sikhs and other devotees who honor Guru Nanak’s legacy. It is a day filled with devotion, prayer, and community service, celebrating Guru Nanak's profound impact on society and his timeless teachings of compassion, humility, and universal brotherhood.

The festival transcends religious boundaries, as people of all faiths come together to celebrate Guru Nanak's life, reflecting on his vision of a just and egalitarian world.