Guru Nanak Jayanti in India

Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is one of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism, commemorating the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh faith. It is celebrated with great reverence and joy on the full moon day of the Kartik month as per the lunar Sikh calendar, which usually falls in November.

History:

• Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born on April 15, 1469, in Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi (present-day Nankana Sahib, Pakistan).
• He was a spiritual teacher who laid down the foundation of Sikhism and propagated the message of 'Ek Onkar' (one God) and universal brotherhood.
• His teachings are compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, which is considered as the eternal Guru of Sikhs after his physical form.

Traditions:

• The celebrations typically begin two days before with Akhand Path, a 48-hour non-stop reading of Guru Granth Sahib.
• Prabhat Pheris or early morning processions start from gurdwaras and go around localities singing hymns.
• On the eve, a night vigil (Rehras Sahib) and kirtan programs are held where devotional songs and hymns from Sikh scriptures are sung.
• Decorations light up homes and Gurdwaras; they are often adorned with flowers and lights.

What People Do on This Day:

• Sikhs visit Gurdwaras to offer prayers. The Gurdwaras host free community lunches called Langar, serving meals to all visitors regardless of religious background.
• Volunteers participate in cooking, serving food, and cleaning up as an act of service (Seva).
• Processions called Nagar Kirtan are led by five people representing the original Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved Ones), featuring martial arts displays called Gatka and floats depicting various aspects of Sikh history.

On this auspicious day, Sikhs reflect on Guru Nanak Dev Ji's teachings which include love for God, truthful living, equality among humankind, social justice, denouncing superstitions and blind rituals.