Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024: Celebrating the Light of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

• Jun 8, 2024

Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is a sacred occasion celebrated by Sikhs around the world to honor the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. This year, Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024 holds profound significance, marking the 553rd birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. As Sikhs and followers of Guru Nanak gather to commemorate this auspicious day, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the life, teachings, and legacy of this revered spiritual leader.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji, born on April 15, 1469, in the village of Rai Bhoi Di Talwandi (now known as Nankana Sahib in present-day Pakistan), embarked on a transformative spiritual journey that continues to inspire millions. From a young age, Guru Nanak displayed a profound sense of compassion, wisdom, and a questioning spirit. His deep contemplation and observations of the world around him led him to challenge the prevailing social norms and religious practices of his time.

Guru Nanak's teachings are encapsulated in the principles of equality, selflessness, and devotion to the divine. He preached the message of 'Ik Onkar' (There is One God), emphasizing the oneness of humanity and the universality of divine love. Guru Nanak rejected the caste system, gender discrimination, and rituals that divided society, advocating for a path of righteous living and service to others.

Throughout his life, Guru Nanak embarked on extensive travels, known as his Udasis, spreading his message far and wide. From the bustling markets of Punjab to the tranquil banks of rivers and forests, Guru Nanak engaged in meaningful dialogues with people from diverse backgrounds, imparting spiritual wisdom and fostering harmony among communities.
One of the most iconic stories from Guru Nanak's life is his encounter with the Siddhas at the age of thirty. While bathing in the river, Guru Nanak disappeared underwater for three days. Many presumed him dead, but he emerged with a profound revelation: "Na koi Hindu, na koi Musalman" (There is no Hindu, there is no Muslim). This divine experience affirmed Guru Nanak's mission to bridge the perceived divides between religious communities and establish a path of spiritual unity.

Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024 is not merely a day of festivities but a spiritual journey for Sikhs and devotees worldwide. The celebrations typically begin before dawn with Prabhat Pheris (early morning processions) and continue throughout the day with Katha (scriptural readings), Kirtan (devotional music), and Langar (community kitchen) where free meals are served to all, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion.
As darkness falls, Gurudwaras (Sikh temples) are illuminated, symbolizing the light of Guru Nanak's teachings dispelling ignorance and spreading enlightenment. The Prakash Utsav (illumination festival) culminates with the Akhand Path, a continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, followed by Ardas (prayer) and distribution of Karah Prasad (sweet offering).

Guru Nanak Jayanti, or Gurpurab, is a time for introspection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to the values espoused by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. In a world often marred by division and strife, his timeless teachings of love, compassion, and equality resonate more than ever. As we commemorate Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024, let us strive to embody his teachings in our lives and work towards building a more harmonious and inclusive society, guided by the eternal light of Guru Nanak's wisdom.

Who was the first Sikh guru?

Guru Nanak, born on April 15, 1469, in Rai Bhoi di Talvandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan) and passed away in 1539 in Kartarpur, Punjab, was the first Guru of Sikhism. He was an Indian spiritual teacher who founded Sikhism, a monotheistic religion blending Hindu and Muslim influences.

Is Guru Nanak Jayanti a national holiday?

Yes, Guru Nanak Jayanti is indeed a public holiday. On this day, the general population typically enjoys a day off from work, and schools as well as most businesses remain closed to commemorate the occasion.

Why is Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrated?

Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab and Guru Nanak Prakash Utsav, commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. It's a day dedicated to honoring his teachings and principles.

How to wish Guru Nanak Jayanti?

Wishing you a joyous and prosperous Guru Nanak Jayanti! May Guru Nanak's blessings light up your journey, filling it with happiness and righteousness. Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti! May the divine grace of Guru Nanak lead you through life, showering you with love, compassion, and fulfillment.

Why is Guru Nanak Dev Ji's birthday in November?

Guru Nanak Jayanti is a Gazetted holiday in India. According to the controversial Bhai Bala Janamsakhi, Guru Nanak was born on the Full Moon (Pooranmashi) of the Indian Lunar Month Kartik. As a result, Sikhs have been celebrating Guru Nanak's Gurpurab around November, and this tradition is deeply ingrained in Sikh traditions.

Who celebrates Gurpurab?

Sikhs worldwide are gearing up to celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti, the most sacred day in their calendar, also known as Gurpurab. This auspicious festival commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first guru of Sikhism. In 2024, Guru Nanak Jayanti will be observed on Friday, November 15th.

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