Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Guru Purab or Prakash Utsav, is one of the most sacred and widely celebrated festivals in the Sikh faith. It marks the birth anniversary of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. In 2025, the auspicious occasion will be celebrated on November 5, commemorating the 556th birth anniversary of the great spiritual teacher whose divine wisdom continues to guide humanity.
The life and message of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji continue to guide humanity with timeless wisdom. His teachings of compassion, equality, humility and service are very inspiring. Greetings on his Parkash Purab. May his divine light keep illuminating our planet forever. pic.twitter.com/q2v6mMhUO8
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 5, 2025
The Life and Legacy of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born on 15 April 1469 in Rai Bhoi di Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan). His father, Mehta Kalu, worked as an accountant in the village, while his mother, Mata Tripta, nurtured him with love and devotion. Nanak had an elder sister, Bebe Nanki, who played a vital role in shaping his early spiritual inclination. After her marriage to Jai Ram in 1475, Guru Nanak spent several years living with them, deepening his understanding of the world and its ways.
At the age of 16, Guru Nanak began working under Daulat Khan Lodi, but his divine nature and spiritual curiosity soon led him toward a higher calling. On 24 September 1487, he married Mata Sulakkhani, and together they had two sons, Sri Chand and Lakhmi Chand.
Through his teachings and journeys, Guru Nanak laid the foundation of Sikhism, a faith rooted in truth, equality, compassion, and service. His messages emphasized living with faith, honesty, and social responsibility, striving for justice, and ensuring prosperity for all. Out of the many sacred hymns in the Guru Granth Sahib, 974 hymns were composed by Guru Nanak Dev Ji himself—poetic expressions of divine wisdom that continue to inspire millions.
The Spirit of Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated over three sacred days filled with devotion, service, and community spirit. The celebrations begin with Akhand Path, a continuous 48-hour recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib in Gurdwaras. On the eve of the festival, vibrant Nagar Kirtans (religious processions) are led by the Panj Pyaras (the Five Beloved Ones), carrying the Nishan Sahib, the Sikh flag, through the streets while devotees sing hymns and spread messages of peace and unity.
On the day of the festival, the celebrations begin early in the morning with the singing of Asa-di-Var, followed by the recitation of sacred poems by priests in Gurdwaras. The day’s highlight is the Langar, a community meal served to everyone irrespective of caste, creed, or background—a living embodiment of Guru Nanak’s teaching of equality and selfless service. Devotees join together with family and friends to share this blessed meal, accompanied by kirtan (devotional singing) and prayers that fill the air with joy and reverence.
Celebrations in Nankana Sahib
The celebrations in Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, hold special significance. Thousands of devotees from across the world gather there to seek blessings and participate in the grand events organized by the managing committee. Volunteers prepare and serve Langar and Karah Prasad, symbolizing love and gratitude. The Gurdwara resonates with spiritual music and kirtans, creating an atmosphere of deep devotion and unity. The day concludes with a collective prayer, invoking peace and harmony for all.
A Global Festival of Faith
Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated with equal enthusiasm across the world—in countries like the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, and many others where Sikh communities reside. Devotees visit Gurdwaras, offer prayers, and reflect on the timeless teachings of the Guru. His message of “Ik Onkar”—that there is one God who dwells in every being—continues to resonate beyond borders, inspiring people of all faiths to live with compassion and humility.
The Eternal Message
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings remain a guiding light for humanity even in the modern age. He taught that true spirituality is not found in rituals but in truthful living, love, humility, and service to others. His vision of a world built on equality and brotherhood holds profound relevance today.
As we celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025, may his divine light continue to illuminate our hearts and inspire us to walk the path of truth, kindness, and selfless service.