While Guru Nanak Jayanti or Gurupurab is a Sikh occasion, the celebration is appreciated by numerous communities in India, including Hindus.
Obviously, it is an especially significant occasion in the Indian territory of Punjab. This day marks the birth of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev. This year will be Guru Nanak’s 553rd birth anniversary.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is a period for bliss and fun, however, the celebration additionally focuses on the lessons of Guru Nanak. This occasion begins on the full moon day during the month of Katak.
Since lunar schedules fluctuate every year, Guru Nanak Jayanti is observed during October or November on the Gregorian schedule. This year the day will be observed on November 08.
Who was Guru Nanak Sahib?
Preceding Nanak’s introduction to the world in 1469 CE, India was essentially characterized by a social order known as the caste system. This framework guaranteed that poor individuals remained poor and well-off individuals continued to bloom. Guru Nanak comprehended that this framework was unjustifiable, so he submitted his life to battling against it.
After serious contemplation and self-reflection, Guru Nanak got a dream that showed him the genuine goal of God. As per this vision, the proper foundations and caste indiscrimination of India were pointless to interface with God. A crucial part of Guru Nanak’s vision was that all people have an immediate association with God. This made Guru Nanak reject the priests and the Holy Vedas of the Hindu scriptures.
Guru Nanak was first marked as a blasphemer who denied the teachings of God. This all changed when the Dalits understood that their life could be greatly improved under the way of thinking of Guru Nanak.
Gradually, Guru Nanak was seen as a hero by numerous people. Guru Nanak likewise showed his devotees that there was no need for the customary methods of fasting and pilgrimages to meet God. He proposed that his devotees ought to just partake in ethical life and love God through prayers.
After Guru Nanak removed the caste system, he was seen as an enemy by the priests and emperors. He was even arrested once when he challenged emperor Babar. After his death, his vision was transferred to the other 9 Sikh gurus.
How is Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrated?
There are different ways that Sikhs and different Indians celebrate this day to respect the life and lessons of Guru Nanak. Some of the activities include:
Akhand Path: Before the beginning of Guru Nanak Jayanti, a progression of readings are performed in significant Sikh regions. Known as Akhand Path, this occasion continues for 48 hours. During Akhand Path, probably the main sonnets from Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred text of Sikhism, are presented. The most well-known prayer for this occasion is Japji Sahib and Sidh-Gosht.
Nagar Kirtan: During the day preceding the celebration, Sikhs conduct Nagar Kirtan, a vivacious parade that draws in guests from across the world. This parade is driven by the Five Beloved Ones and the Sikh banner. The procession likewise comprises artists, choreographers, and military specialists.
Langar: On the full moon day of the month of Katak, individuals who celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti can partake in a free local area lunch with their loved ones. After this supper, Sikhs go to different evening prayer meetings.
