The sacred festival of Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. In 2025, this profoundly spiritual occasion will be celebrated with immense devotion and reverence by Sikh communities across India and worldwide.
When is Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025?
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 falls on Thursday, October 30th. The celebration is determined by the lunar calendar, specifically on the full moon day (Purnima) of the month of Kartik. This makes it one of the most significant festivals in the Sikh religious calendar.
The Historical and Spiritual Significance
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Rai Bhoi di Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib in Pakistan. His teachings revolutionized spiritual thought and emphasized:
- One God: The fundamental belief in Ik Onkar - one supreme reality
- Equality: Rejection of caste discrimination and promotion of social equality
- Selfless Service: The importance of Seva (service) to humanity
- Honest Living: Earning through honest means and sharing with others
How is Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrated?
The celebrations begin several days in advance with great enthusiasm and spiritual fervor:
Akhand Path and Prabhat Pheris
Devotees commence the celebrations with Akhand Path - the continuous 48-hour reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. Early morning processions called Prabhat Pheris are taken out in neighborhoods, with devotees singing hymns and sharing the message of Guru Nanak.
The Grand Nagar Kirtan Procession
On the main day, a magnificent procession called Nagar Kirtan is organized. This features:
- The Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones) leading the procession
- The Sikh flag (Nishan Sahib) carried with honor
- Devotees singing devotional hymns (Shabads)
- Martial arts displays (Gatka) showcasing Sikh warrior traditions
- Decorated floats depicting scenes from Guru Nanak's life
Community Service and Langar
A special emphasis is placed on community service and Langar - the tradition of serving free meals to all visitors regardless of caste, creed, or social status. This practice embodies Guru Nanak's teaching of equality and selfless service.
Where to Experience the Celebrations
The most grand celebrations occur at historical Gurudwaras associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji:
- Golden Temple, Amritsar: The holiest shrine witnesses spectacular decorations and millions of devotees
- Gurudwara Janam Asthan, Nankana Sahib: The birthplace in Pakistan attracts pilgrims from worldwide
- Gurudwara Sri Panja Sahib, Pakistan: Another significant site associated with miracles of Guru Nanak
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 promises to be a spiritually uplifting experience, bringing together people from all walks of life to celebrate the timeless teachings of peace, equality, and devotion that Guru Nanak Dev Ji embodied throughout his life.
