Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Guru Nanak’s Prakash Utsav or Gurpurab, will be celebrated on November 27, 2023, marking the 554th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. This auspicious day is one of the most significant festivals in Sikhism and is observed with great devotion and reverence.
The festival is celebrated on Kartik Poornima, the fifteenth lunar day of the Hindu month of Kartik, which usually falls in November. The day is marked by various rituals and practices including the recitation of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, spiritual gatherings, and the practice of Langar Seva, where free meals are served to promote equality and community spirit.
The history of Guru Nanak Jayanti dates back to the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji in 1469 in Talwandi Nankana Sahib. He is revered for his wisdom and teachings that laid the foundation of Sikhism, emphasizing unity, equality, and selfless service. The Guru Granth Sahib, which contains his teachings, is considered the final and eternal Guru in Sikhism.
Rituals of the day include the akhand path, a continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, Nagar Kirtan processions, and Kirtan and Katha sessions where hymns are sung, and teachings are discussed. Kar Sewa, or voluntary community service, is also a significant aspect of the celebration, reflecting Sikhism’s core values.
In summary, Guru Nanak Jayanti 2023 is a day of immense spiritual significance for Sikhs worldwide, celebrating the life and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and promoting the principles of Sikh philosophy.
