Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is one of the most significant festivals in the Sikh community. It celebrates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. The festival usually falls in the month of Kartik (October-November), according to the lunar calendar.
Key Aspects of the Celebration:
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Prabhat Pheris: These are early morning processions that begin from the gurdwaras (Sikh temples) and proceed around the localities singing hymns.
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Akhand Path: A continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of the Sikhs, is performed. This reading usually lasts for 48 hours and is completed just before the festival day.
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Nagar Kirtan: A day before Guru Nanak Jayanti, a procession called Nagar Kirtan is organized. The procession is led by the Panj Pyare (the five beloved ones) and includes singing of hymns, playing of traditional instruments, and martial arts performances known as Gatka.
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Langar: A community meal is served to everyone, irrespective of their caste, creed, or religion. This free meal is an important part of the Sikh tradition and symbolizes the values of sharing and equality.
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Decorations and Lighting: Gurdwaras are decorated with lights, flowers, and other decorations. In the evening, the buildings are illuminated, and people often set off fireworks.
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Gurbani Recitations and Kirtan: The day is marked by the singing of hymns (kirtan) and recitation of Gurbani (the teachings of the Sikh Gurus).
Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrations
Guru Nank Jayanti is marked by prabhat pheris or early morning processions that begins from the Gurdwaras and then moves to different localities singing hymns or shabads. The celebration lasts for three days.Usually two days before the birthday of Guru Nanak, ‘Akhand Path’ or forty-eight hour non-stop reading of the holy book of the Sikhs, Guru Granth Sahib is carried on at the Gurdwaras.
A procession is carried out on the day before his birthday which is led by the Panj Pyaras (Five Beloved Ones).Sikh flag, or the Nishan Sahib and the palki or the palanquin of Sri Guru Granth Sahib is taken out in the procession. The procession also includes a group of singers singing hymns in praise of Guru Nanak and Gatka teams displaying their showmanship through martial arts. The leaders of the procession also spread the message of Guru Nanak.
Gurpurab day begins early with the singing of the Asa-di-Var (morning hymns) and hymns from the Sikh scriptures. It is followed with Katha or the exposition of the scriptures along with poems and lectures in praise of Guru Nanak. Langar or special community lunch is prepared at the Gurdwaras. The langar along with ‘Karah Prasad’ is offered to men and women of all communities.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated with great reverence and joy, especially among the Sikh community. Here’s a detailed look at how the celebration unfolds:
1. Prabhat Pheris:
The day often begins with Prabhat Pheris, which are early morning processions. Devotees gather at the gurdwara (Sikh temple) in the early hours before dawn, singing hymns and prayers. They then move around the neighborhood, spreading the spiritual message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
2. Akhand Path:
A central part of the celebration is the Akhand Path, a non-stop reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikhs. This continuous reading lasts for 48 hours, usually starting two days before the actual Gurpurab. The recitation is carried out by a group of readers who take turns without a break.
3. Nagar Kirtan:
On the eve of Guru Nanak Jayanti, a grand procession known as Nagar Kirtan is organized. This procession is a vibrant display of devotion and community spirit. It is led by the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones) who carry the Sikh flag (Nishan Sahib) and are dressed in traditional attire. The Nagar Kirtan includes:
Kirtan Jathas: Groups of musicians and singers who sing hymns.
Gatka Performances: Martial arts demonstrations by skilled practitioners.
Decorated Floats: The Guru Granth Sahib is placed on a beautifully decorated float, and the procession passes through the streets while devotees chant hymns and scriptures.
Community Participation: People distribute sweets, and volunteers serve refreshments along the procession route.
4. Langar:
A hallmark of Sikhism, the Langar (community kitchen) is an integral part of the celebration. It is a free meal provided to everyone, regardless of background, signifying equality and community service. Volunteers from the community come together to prepare and serve food, ensuring that no one goes hungry on this auspicious day.
5. Gurdwara Services:
On the day of Guru Nanak Jayanti, special services are held in gurdwaras. The day begins with Asa-di-Var (morning hymns), followed by Kirtan (singing of devotional songs) and Katha (explanations of the scriptures). The teachings of Guru Nanak are recounted, emphasizing the values of truth, love, humility, and equality.
6. Decorations and Illumination:
Gurdwaras and homes are beautifully decorated with lights, flowers, and flags. In the evening, buildings are illuminated, and sometimes fireworks are set off to celebrate the occasion.
7. Reflection and Devotion:
The festival is not just about external celebrations but also about internal reflection. Devotees take time to meditate on Guru Nanak’s teachings, particularly his emphasis on the oneness of God, the importance of honest living, and the need for selfless service.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is a time for Sikhs and others to come together in a spirit of love, equality, and devotion, embodying the principles Guru Nanak Dev Ji stood for.
In evening, the Gurdwaras are illuminated and people visit them in large numbers. People also illuminate their homes with candles and earthen lamps.
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