Mumbai: Guru Nanak Jayanti is one of the most special days for Sikhs everywhere. Also known as “Gurpurab” or “Prakash Parv,” it celebrates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first Sikh Guru. Held each year on the full moon in Kartik (usually October or November), this year’s Gurpurab falls on 15 November, marking his 555th birth anniversary. Sikhs around the world gather in Gurdwaras, homes, and community spaces to remember his teachings and celebrate his legacy.
This day is filled with vibrant tradition and a strong sense of unity. Gurdwaras are decorated, hymns echo through the air, and communities come together for processions and communal meals. But beyond the rituals, it’s a day that brings everyone back to Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s powerful messages of love, equality, and compassion.
Every year, Sikhs celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti on the full moon of Kartik, known as Kartik Purnima. This year, it’s on 15 November. For Sikhs, this day is both a celebration and a reminder of Guru Nanak’s teachings — principles that continue to guide and inspire.
Kartik Purnima was chosen for Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary centuries ago. Born in 1469, Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s life and teachings are celebrated every year with heartfelt devotion. In the days leading up to Guru Nanak Jayanti, Gurdwaras hold an “Akhand Path,” a continuous 48-hour reading of the Guru Granth Sahib. The sacred reading finishes on the morning of Guru Nanak Jayanti. This sets the stage for the day’s main celebration. And then comes a moment everyone looks forward to — the “Nagar Kirtan.”
The Nagar Kirtan is the heart of Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrations. The Guru Granth Sahib is carried in a flower-adorned palanquin. Community members walk behind it, singing hymns and chanting prayers with complete devotion. People of all ages join in, walking side by side, singing, and celebrating together.
Inside the Gurdwaras, the sound of hymns and stories of Guru Nanak’s life fills the space. His teachings on kindness and equality are shared with devotees. And, in true Sikh spirit, there’s Langar. All are welcome, regardless of religion, caste, or background.
It’s a time to sit together, eat together, and remember the values of compassion and unity that Guru Nanak Dev Ji cherished.
Langar is more than a meal; it’s a symbol of equality and unity. For Sikhs, serving Langar reflects Guru Nanak’s vision that every person is equal, no matter their background. On this day, many Gurdwaras go further by organising charity events and giving food, clothing, and essentials to those in need. This spirit of service captures Guru Nanak’s teachings on compassion and humility.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is more than a festival. It is a reminder of values that feel timeless. The teachings of Guru Nanak still resonate, inspiring people to live with compassion. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings, “Naam Japo, Kirat Karo, Vand Chakko” — continue to inspire. His message calls for a life of love, integrity, and kindness, principles that Sikhs and people worldwide reflect upon and recommit to on this day.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is a day of community, reflection, and joy. Through Nagar Kirtans, Langar, and gatherings, Sikhs and people from diverse backgrounds celebrate together, embracing Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s vision for a more compassionate world.
