Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of ten Sikh Gurus. This auspicious day is honoured on the full moon of the Kartik month, which usually occurs between October and November. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Talwandi, which is today in Pakistan, and his teachings continue to inspire millions of people worldwide.
Life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s life exemplified honesty, equality, and spirituality. He was extremely concerned about social concerns and actively opposed injustice, unfairness, and prejudice. Guru Nanak emphasised the value of truth, love, equality, and selfless service.
He believed in God’s oneness and spread the message that all humans are equal, regardless of caste, colour, or creed. His teachings challenged the conservative social and religious standards of the time, encouraging people to prioritise spiritual progress and harmony. Guru Nanak’s core teaching was that one could approach God via devotion, honesty, and service to humanity.
Guru Nanak’s teachings
Guru Nanak’s philosophy was based on three basic principles:
1. Naam Japna (Remembering God’s Name): He emphasised the significance of meditation and chanting God’s name in connecting with the divine.
2. Kirat Karni (Honest life): He pushed for making an honest life via hard labour and ethical practices.
3. Vand Chakna (Sharing with Others): Guru Nanak emphasised the value of unselfish service and sharing with the less fortunate.
Celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti
The Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrations are bright and filled with devotion. The day begins with the reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism’s holy scripture, in Gurdwaras (Sikh temples). This is called as the Akhand Path, a continuous reading that often lasts two days prior to the celebration.
On the day of the Gurpurab, a parade known as Nagar Kirtan takes place, in which devotees sing hymns (Kirtan), dance, and recite praises to Guru Nanak. The Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved Ones) leads the procession, which is escorted by a Palki carrying the Guru Granth Sahib.
Langar, a community dinner, is an important feature of the celebrations, with free food offered to all visitors to represent equality and the attitude of unselfish service.
The Spirit of Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Jayanti commemorates not just the birth of a spiritual guru, but also serves as a reminder of the universal principles of equality, love, and compassion. It instills in people the values of humility, service to others, and loyalty to God.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is a time for Sikhs and individuals from all backgrounds to reflect, renew their commitment to living a life based on Guru Nanak’s values, and spread love and kindness around the world. Finally, Guru Nanak Jayanti is a day that crosses religious barriers and encourages everyone to work together to promote peace, unity, and spiritual development.
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