Guru Nanak Jayanti

Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti or Gurpurab is also referred as Guru Nanak DevJi’s Prakash Utsav, marks the birth anniversary of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak. This is one of the most sacred festivals for followers of the Sikh faith. Nanakpanthi Hindus and many North Indian Hindus also celebrate this Sikh festival.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the 1st Guru and the founder of Sikhism. He was born in in Nankana Saheb during 1469 in present day Pakistan before India and Pakistan were separated. The birthday of Guru Nanak Dev Ji falls on Kartik Poornima (full moon day) in the month of Kartik. In the Gregorian Calendar, the birthday of Guru Nanak usually falls in the month of November and in 2012 it is on November 28th.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji Jayanti is marked by prabhat pheris, known as early morning processions that begins from the Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) and then moves to different localities singing hymns or shabads. The celebration lasts for 3 days in heavy celebrated areas. In the evening, the Gurdwaras are filled with lights and many Sikhs attend. People also light their homes with candles and lamps.

The Chakra team wishes all Sikhs a Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti and Gurpurab.