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{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2019}}
{{Infobox holiday
{{Infobox holiday
|holiday_name  = Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab
| holiday_name  = Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab
|image        = Akal Takht illuminated, in Harmandir Sahib complex, Amritsar.jpg
| image        = Akal Takht illuminated, in Harmandir Sahib complex, Amritsar.jpg
|imagesize    = 220px
| imagesize    = 220px
|caption      = [[Akal Takht]] illuminated on [[Guru Nanak]]'s Birthday, in [[Harmandir Sahib]] complex, [[Amritsar]].
| caption      = [[Akal Takht]] illuminated on [[Guru Nanak]]'s Birthday, in [[Harmandir Sahib]] complex, [[Amritsar]].
|official_name = Guru Nanak Jayanti
| official_name = Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab
|nickname      = Parkash Guru Nanak Dev Ji
| nickname      = Parkash Guru Nanak Dev Ji
|observedby    = [[Sikhism|Sikhs]], [[Nanakpanthi|Nanakpanthis]]
| observedby    = [[Sikhism|Sikhs]], [[Nanakpanthi|Nanakpanthis]]
|significance  = Guru Nanak's birthday
| significance  = Guru Nanak's birthday
|date          = [[Kartik Purnima|Kartik Pooranmashi]]
| date          = [[Kartik Purnima|Kartik Pooranmashi]]
|date2019      = 12 November<ref name="nanakshahi">{{cite web |title=Movable Holidays |url=https://nanakshahi.net/calendar/movable/ |website=nanakshahi.net |access-date=22 November 2018 |archive-date=30 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190830130425/https://nanakshahi.net/calendar/movable/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
| date2019      = 12 November<ref name="nanakshahi">{{cite web |title=Movable Holidays |url=https://nanakshahi.net/calendar/movable/ |website=nanakshahi.net |access-date=22 November 2018 |archive-date=30 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190830130425/https://nanakshahi.net/calendar/movable/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
|date2020      = 30 November<ref>{{cite web |title=Movable Holidays |url=https://nanakshahi.net/calendar/movable/ |website=nanakshahi.net |access-date=22 November 2018 |archive-date=30 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190830130425/https://nanakshahi.net/calendar/movable/ |url-status=dead |at=Set year to 2020, and click "Get Dates" }}</ref>
| date2020      = 30 November<ref>{{cite web |title=Movable Holidays |url=https://nanakshahi.net/calendar/movable/ |website=nanakshahi.net |access-date=22 November 2018 |archive-date=30 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190830130425/https://nanakshahi.net/calendar/movable/ |url-status=dead |at=Set year to 2020, and click "Get Dates" }}</ref>
|date2021      = 19 November<ref>{{cite web |title=Movable Holidays |url=https://nanakshahi.net/calendar/movable/ |website=nanakshahi.net |access-date=22 November 2018 |archive-date=30 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190830130425/https://nanakshahi.net/calendar/movable/ |url-status=dead |at=Set year to 2021, and click "Get Dates" }}</ref>
| date2021      = 19 November<ref>{{cite web |title=Movable Holidays |url=https://nanakshahi.net/calendar/movable/ |website=nanakshahi.net |access-date=22 November 2018 |archive-date=30 August 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190830130425/https://nanakshahi.net/calendar/movable/ |url-status=dead |at=Set year to 2021, and click "Get Dates" }}</ref>
|observances  = festival
| observances  = festival
| type          =
| date2022      = 8 November<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.qppstudio.net/global-holidays-observances/guru-nanak-jayanti.htm | title=When is Guru Nanak Jayanti for the next 10 years (2022 to 2032) ? }}</ref>
| date2023      = 27 November<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.qppstudio.net/global-holidays-observances/guru-nanak-jayanti.htm | title=When is Guru Nanak Jayanti for the next 10 years (2022 to 2032) ? }}</ref>
}}
}}
'''Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab''', also known as '''Guru Nanak's Prakash Utsav''' and '''Guru Nanak Dev Ji Jayanti''', celebrates the birth of the first [[Sikh gurus|Sikh guru]], [[Guru Nanak]].<ref name="Purewal">{{cite web|url=http://www.purewal.biz/gnsbirthdateall.pdf|title=Birth Date of Guru Nanak Sahib|first=Pal|publisher=Pal Singh Purewal|author=Singh Purewal|work=Purewal's Page|access-date=16 June 2017|archive-date=22 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222084945/http://www.purewal.biz/gnsbirthdateall.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> One of the most celebrated Sikh gurus and the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev is highly revered by the Sikh community. <ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-11-30|title=Happy Gurpurab 2020: Guru Nanak Jayanti Wishes Images, Status, Quotes, Wallpapers, Messages, Photos|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/life-style/happy-gurpurab-2020-guru-nanak-jayanti-wishes-images-status-quotes-wallpapers-messages-photos-7066085/|access-date=2020-11-30|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref> This is one of the most sacred festivals in [[Sikhism]], or Sikhi.<ref>{{cite web|title=Guru Nanak Jayanti 2019: History, significance and traditions|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/more-lifestyle/guru-nanak-jayanti-2019-history-significance-and-traditions/story-Opf6s8eSEPtGNZgV0SbPyL.html|publisher=[[Hindustan Times]]|access-date=5 May 2020|archive-date=14 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191214044920/https://www.hindustantimes.com/more-lifestyle/guru-nanak-jayanti-2019-history-significance-and-traditions/story-Opf6s8eSEPtGNZgV0SbPyL.html|url-status=live}}</ref>  
'''Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab''', also known as '''Guru Nanak's Prakash Utsav''', celebrates the birth of the first [[Sikh gurus|Sikh guru]], [[Guru Nanak]].<ref name="Purewal">{{cite web|url=http://www.purewal.biz/gnsbirthdateall.pdf|title=Birth Date of Guru Nanak Sahib|first=Pal|publisher=Pal Singh Purewal|author=Singh Purewal|work=Purewal's Page|access-date=16 June 2017|archive-date=22 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222084945/http://www.purewal.biz/gnsbirthdateall.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> One of the most celebrated Sikh gurus and the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev is highly revered by the Sikh community. <ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-11-30|title=Happy Gurpurab 2020: Guru Nanak Jayanti Wishes Images, Status, Quotes, Wallpapers, Messages, Photos|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/life-style/happy-gurpurab-2020-guru-nanak-jayanti-wishes-images-status-quotes-wallpapers-messages-photos-7066085/|access-date=2020-11-30|website=The Indian Express|language=en}}</ref> This is one of the most sacred festivals in [[Sikhism]], or Sikhi.<ref>{{cite web|title=Guru Nanak Jayanti 2019: History, significance and traditions|date=11 November 2019 |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/more-lifestyle/guru-nanak-jayanti-2019-history-significance-and-traditions/story-Opf6s8eSEPtGNZgV0SbPyL.html|publisher=[[Hindustan Times]]|access-date=5 May 2020|archive-date=14 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191214044920/https://www.hindustantimes.com/more-lifestyle/guru-nanak-jayanti-2019-history-significance-and-traditions/story-Opf6s8eSEPtGNZgV0SbPyL.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The festivities in the Sikh religion revolve around the anniversaries of the 10 Sikh Gurus. These Gurus were responsible for shaping the beliefs of the Sikhs . Their birthdays, known as ''[[Gurpurab]],'' are occasions for celebration and prayer among the Sikhs.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Sikh 10 Gurus|url=https://sikhipictureframes.wordpress.com/2020/05/03/guru-nanak-dev-ji-and-sikh-10-gurus/|date=2020-05-03|website=Sikh legendaries|language=en|access-date=2020-05-05|archive-date=28 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128120807/https://sikhipictureframes.wordpress.com/2020/05/03/guru-nanak-dev-ji-and-sikh-10-gurus/|url-status=live}}</ref>
 
The festivities in the Sikh religion revolve around the anniversaries of the 10 Sikh Gurus. These Gurus were responsible for shaping the beliefs of the Sikhs . Their birthdays, known as ''[[Gurpurab]],'' are occasions for celebration and prayer among the Sikhs.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Sikh 10 Gurus|url=https://sikhipictureframes.wordpress.com/2020/05/03/guru-nanak-dev-ji-and-sikh-10-gurus/|date=2020-05-03|website=Sikh legendaries|language=en|access-date=2020-05-05|archive-date=28 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128120807/https://sikhipictureframes.wordpress.com/2020/05/03/guru-nanak-dev-ji-and-sikh-10-gurus/|url-status=live}}</ref>
 
== Background ==
== Background ==
Guru Nanak, the founder of [[Sikhism]], was born on Puranmashi of Kattak in 1469, according to the [[Bikrami calendar]]<ref>{{cite web|last1=Singh Purewal|first1=Pal|title=Vaisakhi Dates Range According To Indian Ephemeris By Swamikannu Pillai – i.e. English Date on 1 Vaisakh Bikrami|url=http://www.purewal.biz/PastVaisakhiDates.pdf|publisher=Pal Singh Purewal|access-date=25 June 2017|archive-date=4 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181004232123/http://www.purewal.biz/PastVaisakhiDates.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> in Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi in the present [[Shekhupura District]] of [[Pakistan]], now [[Nankana Sahib]].<ref name=ref2>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak1.html|title=Guru Nanak Dev ji (1469–1539)|access-date=26 December 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070830205721/http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak1.html|archive-date=30 August 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref> It is a [[Public holidays in India|Gazetted holiday]] in India.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Guru Nanak Jayanti in India|url=https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/india/guru-nanak-jayanti|access-date=2020-11-28|website=www.timeanddate.com|language=en}}</ref>
Guru Nanak, the founder of [[Sikhism]], was born on Puranmashi of Kattak in 1469, according to the [[Bikrami calendar]]<ref>{{cite web|last1=Singh Purewal|first1=Pal|title=Vaisakhi Dates Range According To Indian Ephemeris By Swamikannu Pillai – i.e. English Date on 1 Vaisakh Bikrami|url=http://www.purewal.biz/PastVaisakhiDates.pdf|publisher=Pal Singh Purewal|access-date=25 June 2017|archive-date=4 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181004232123/http://www.purewal.biz/PastVaisakhiDates.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> in Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi in the present [[Shekhupura District]] of [[Pakistan]], now [[Nankana Sahib]].<ref name=ref2>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak1.html|title=Guru Nanak Dev ji (1469–1539)|access-date=26 December 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070830205721/http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/gurus/nanak1.html|archive-date=30 August 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref> It is a [[Public holidays in India|Gazetted holiday]] in India.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Guru Nanak Jayanti in India|url=https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/india/guru-nanak-jayanti|access-date=2020-11-28|website=www.timeanddate.com|language=en}}</ref> According to the controversial [[Bhai Bala]] Janamsakhi, it claims Guru Nanak was born on the Full Moon ([[Purnima|Pooranmashi]]) of the Indian Lunar Month Kartik.<ref>{{cite book|last=Singh Mehboob|first=Harinder|title=As the Sun of Suns Rose: The Darkness of the Creeds Was Dispelled|url={{Google books|_yKiDQAAQBAJ|keywords=katak|plainurl=yes}}}}</ref> The Sikhs have been celebrating Guru Nanak's Gurpurab around November for this reason and has it been ingrained in Sikh Traditions.<ref name="Purewal" /><ref name="Purewal2">{{cite web|last1=Singh Purewal|first1=Pal|title=Movable Dates of Gurpurbs|url=http://www.purewal.biz/gurpurbs_movable_dates.pdf|website=www.purewal.biz|publisher=www.purewal.biz|access-date=4 November 2017|archive-date=22 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181222182335/http://www.purewal.biz/gurpurbs_movable_dates.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> Kabir Saheb was the Guru of Guru Nanak dev Ji, who met him on the Bein River of Sultanpur, Punjab.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-11-16|title=Guru Nanak Jayanti 2021: Who is the God of Guru Nanak Sahib?|url=https://news.jagatgururampalji.org/guru-nanak-jayanti/|access-date=2021-11-19|website=SA News Channel|language=en-US}}</ref>


According to the controversial [[Bhai Bala]] Janamsakhi, it claims Guru Nanak was born on the Full Moon ([[Purnima|Pooranmashi]]) of the Indian Lunar Month Kartik.<ref>{{cite book|last=Singh Mehboob|first=Harinder|title=As the Sun of Suns Rose: The Darkness of the Creeds Was Dispelled|url={{Google books|_yKiDQAAQBAJ|keywords=katak|plainurl=yes}}}}</ref> The Sikhs have been celebrating Guru Nanak's Gurpurab around November for this reason and has it been ingrained in Sikh Traditions.<ref name="Purewal" /><ref name="Purewal2">{{cite web|last1=Singh Purewal|first1=Pal|title=Movable Dates of Gurpurbs|url=http://www.purewal.biz/gurpurbs_movable_dates.pdf|website=www.purewal.biz|publisher=www.purewal.biz|access-date=4 November 2017|archive-date=22 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181222182335/http://www.purewal.biz/gurpurbs_movable_dates.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>
However, some scholars and organizations believe the Birthday should be celebrated on [[Vaisakhi]], which falls on 14 April according to the [[Mool Nanakshahi Calendar|original]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sikhnet.com/news/mool-nanakshai-calendar-mnc-implementation-conference|title=Mool Nanakshai Calendar (MNC) Implementation Conference|website=SikhNet|date=16 November 2017 |access-date=28 November 2020|archive-date=7 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180207203633/http://www.sikhnet.com/news/mool-nanakshai-calendar-mnc-implementation-conference|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Nanakshahi_calendar|Nanakshahi Calendar]] passed by Sri Akal Takht in 2003. However, many people and organizations would like to keep the traditional date by celebrating on the [[Full moon day|Full Moon Day]] (Pooranmashi or [[Purnima]]) of the Lunar Month Kartik. The original [[Nanakshahi calendar|Nanakshahi Calendar]] follows the tradition and celebrates it on [[Kartik Purnima]] due to demands by various Sikh Saints.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sikhism Religion of the Sikh People |url=https://www.sikhs.org/dates.htm |website=www.sikhs.org |publisher=sikhs.org |access-date=22 November 2018 |archive-date=4 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204003743/http://www.sikhs.org/dates.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>


However, some scholars and organizations believe the Birthday should be celebrated on [[Vaisakhi]], which falls on 14 April according to the [[Mool Nanakshahi Calendar|original]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sikhnet.com/news/mool-nanakshai-calendar-mnc-implementation-conference|title=Mool Nanakshai Calendar (MNC) Implementation Conference|website=SikhNet|access-date=28 November 2020|archive-date=7 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180207203633/http://www.sikhnet.com/news/mool-nanakshai-calendar-mnc-implementation-conference|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Nanakshahi_calendar|Nanakshahi Calendar]] passed by Sri Akal Takht in 2003. However, many people and organizations would like to keep the traditional date by celebrating on the [[Full moon day|Full Moon Day]] (Pooranmashi or [[Purnima]]) of the Lunar Month Kartik. The original [[Nanakshahi calendar|Nanakshahi Calendar]] follows the tradition and celebrates it on [[Kartik Purnima]] due to demands by various Sikh Saints.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sikhism Religion of the Sikh People |url=https://www.sikhs.org/dates.htm |website=www.sikhs.org |publisher=sikhs.org |access-date=22 November 2018 |archive-date=4 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204003743/http://www.sikhs.org/dates.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>
== Significance ==
Guru Nanak Dev preached that any person could connect to God by worshipping with clear conscience. He forbade rituals like animal sacrifices. His teachings are included in Guru Granth Sahib.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-11-17|title=Guru Nanak Jayanti 2021: When is Gurpurab? Date, significance, history and all you need to know|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/festivals/guru-nanak-jayanti-2021-when-is-gurpurab-date-significance-history-and-all-you-need-to-know-101637147962347.html|access-date=2021-11-20|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref>


==The festival==
==The festival==
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On the day of the Gurpurab, the celebrations commence/begin early in the morning at about 4 to 5&nbsp;a.m.<ref name=ref6/><ref name=ref5/> This time of the day is referred to as ''[[Amrit Vela]]''. The day begins with the singing of ''Asaa-Ki-Vaar'' (morning hymns).<ref name=ref6/><ref name=ref5/> This is followed by any combination of ''Katha''<ref name=ref6/> (exposition of the scripture) and ''Kirtan'' (hymns from the Sikh scriptures), in the praise of the Guru.<ref name=ref5/> Following that is the ''Langar'', a special community lunch, which is arranged at the ''Gurudwaras'' by volunteers. The idea behind the free communal lunch is that everyone, irrespective of gender, caste, class or creed,<ref name=ref4>{{Cite web|url=http://www.festivalsofindia.in/gurupurab/|title=Guru Purab|access-date=26 December 2011|archive-date=24 December 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111224161348/http://www.festivalsofindia.in/gurupurab/|url-status=live}}</ref> should be offered food in the spirit of ''seva'' (service) and ''bhakti'' (devotion).  
On the day of the Gurpurab, the celebrations commence/begin early in the morning at about 4 to 5&nbsp;a.m.<ref name=ref6/><ref name=ref5/> This time of the day is referred to as ''[[Amrit Vela]]''. The day begins with the singing of ''Asaa-Ki-Vaar'' (morning hymns).<ref name=ref6/><ref name=ref5/> This is followed by any combination of ''Katha''<ref name=ref6/> (exposition of the scripture) and ''Kirtan'' (hymns from the Sikh scriptures), in the praise of the Guru.<ref name=ref5/> Following that is the ''Langar'', a special community lunch, which is arranged at the ''Gurudwaras'' by volunteers. The idea behind the free communal lunch is that everyone, irrespective of gender, caste, class or creed,<ref name=ref4>{{Cite web|url=http://www.festivalsofindia.in/gurupurab/|title=Guru Purab|access-date=26 December 2011|archive-date=24 December 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111224161348/http://www.festivalsofindia.in/gurupurab/|url-status=live}}</ref> should be offered food in the spirit of ''seva'' (service) and ''bhakti'' (devotion).  


Night prayer sessions are also held in some Gurudwaras, which begin around sunset when Rehras (evening prayer) is recited, followed by Kirtan till late at night.<ref name=ref5/> The congregation starts singing Gurbani at about 1:20&nbsp;a.m., which is the actual time of birth of Guru Nanak. The celebrations culminate at around 2&nbsp;a.m.<ref name=ref5/>
Night prayer sessions are also held in some Gurudwaras, which begin around sunset when Rehras (evening prayer) is recited, followed by Kirtan till late at night.<ref name=ref5/> The congregation starts singing Gurbani at about 1:20&nbsp;a.m., which is the actual time of birth of Guru Nanak. The celebrations culminate at around 2&nbsp;a.m.<ref name=ref5/> Guru Nanak Gurpurab is celebrated by the Sikh community all over the world and is one of the most important festivals in the Sikh calendar. The celebrations are especially colorful in [[Punjab, India|Punjab]], Haryana, and [[Chandigarh]] and many more locations like in parts of Pakistan and England. Even some Sindhis celebrate this festival.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Satpathy|first=Kriti Saraswat|date=2016-11-14|title=Guru Nanak Jayanti: Why and how Gurpurab is celebrated in India|url=https://www.india.com/travel/articles/guru-nanak-jayanti-why-and-how-gurpurab-is-celebrated-in-india-3231424/|access-date=2020-11-25|website=India News, Breaking News, Entertainment News {{!}} India.com|language=en|archive-date=28 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128120810/https://www.india.com/travel/articles/guru-nanak-jayanti-why-and-how-gurpurab-is-celebrated-in-india-3231424/|url-status=live}}</ref> Celebrating the auspicious day, the Punjab government has announced that it will install chairs dedicated to the great saint in 11 universities. The announcement was made on 11 November 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/education/punjab-government-to-install-chair-dedicated-to-guru-nanak-dev-in-11-universities/story-8uekfSMGLM65DHJy0LF1DN.html|title=Punjab government to install chair dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev in 11 universities|date=11 November 2019|website=Hindustan Times|access-date=12 November 2019|archive-date=12 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191112075938/https://www.hindustantimes.com/education/punjab-government-to-install-chair-dedicated-to-guru-nanak-dev-in-11-universities/story-8uekfSMGLM65DHJy0LF1DN.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
 
Guru Nanak Gurpurab is celebrated by the Sikh community all over the world and is one of the most important festivals in the Sikh calendar. The celebrations are especially colorful in [[Punjab, India|Punjab]], Haryana, and [[Chandigarh]] and many more locations like in parts of Pakistan and England. Even some Sindhis celebrate this festival.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Satpathy|first=Kriti Saraswat|date=2016-11-14|title=Guru Nanak Jayanti: Why and how Gurpurab is celebrated in India|url=https://www.india.com/travel/articles/guru-nanak-jayanti-why-and-how-gurpurab-is-celebrated-in-india-3231424/|access-date=2020-11-25|website=India News, Breaking News, Entertainment News {{!}} India.com|language=en|archive-date=28 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201128120810/https://www.india.com/travel/articles/guru-nanak-jayanti-why-and-how-gurpurab-is-celebrated-in-india-3231424/|url-status=live}}</ref>
 
Celebrating the auspicious day, the Punjab government has announced that it will install chairs dedicated to the great saint in 11 universities. The announcement was made on 11 November 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/education/punjab-government-to-install-chair-dedicated-to-guru-nanak-dev-in-11-universities/story-8uekfSMGLM65DHJy0LF1DN.html|title=Punjab government to install chair dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev in 11 universities|date=11 November 2019|website=Hindustan Times|access-date=12 November 2019|archive-date=12 November 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191112075938/https://www.hindustantimes.com/education/punjab-government-to-install-chair-dedicated-to-guru-nanak-dev-in-11-universities/story-8uekfSMGLM65DHJy0LF1DN.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


=== Public Holiday ===
=== Public Holiday ===
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|-
|-
|India <ref>{{Cite web|url=https://publicholidays.in/guru-nanak-jayanti/|title=Guru Nanak Jayanti 2020, 2021 and 2022|website=PublicHolidays.in|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-28|archive-date=30 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200930202415/https://publicholidays.in/guru-nanak-jayanti/|url-status=live}}</ref>
|India <ref>{{Cite web|url=https://publicholidays.in/guru-nanak-jayanti/|title=Guru Nanak Jayanti 2020, 2021 and 2022|website=PublicHolidays.in|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-28|archive-date=30 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200930202415/https://publicholidays.in/guru-nanak-jayanti/|url-status=live}}</ref>
|Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, West Bengal
|Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal
|}
|}
==References==
==References==
{{reflist|30em}}
{{reflist|30em}}

Revision as of 19:13, 7 June 2022


Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab
Akal Takht illuminated on Guru Nanak's Birthday, in Harmandir Sahib complex, Amritsar.
Official nameGuru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab
Also calledParkash Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Observed bySikhs, Nanakpanthis
SignificanceGuru Nanak's birthday
Observancesfestival
DateKartik Pooranmashi

Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurpurab, also known as Guru Nanak's Prakash Utsav, celebrates the birth of the first Sikh guru, Guru Nanak.[6] One of the most celebrated Sikh gurus and the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Dev is highly revered by the Sikh community. [7] This is one of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism, or Sikhi.[8] The festivities in the Sikh religion revolve around the anniversaries of the 10 Sikh Gurus. These Gurus were responsible for shaping the beliefs of the Sikhs . Their birthdays, known as Gurpurab, are occasions for celebration and prayer among the Sikhs.[9]

Background

Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, was born on Puranmashi of Kattak in 1469, according to the Bikrami calendar[10] in Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi in the present Shekhupura District of Pakistan, now Nankana Sahib.[11] It is a Gazetted holiday in India.[12] According to the controversial Bhai Bala Janamsakhi, it claims Guru Nanak was born on the Full Moon (Pooranmashi) of the Indian Lunar Month Kartik.[13] The Sikhs have been celebrating Guru Nanak's Gurpurab around November for this reason and has it been ingrained in Sikh Traditions.[6][14] Kabir Saheb was the Guru of Guru Nanak dev Ji, who met him on the Bein River of Sultanpur, Punjab.[15]

However, some scholars and organizations believe the Birthday should be celebrated on Vaisakhi, which falls on 14 April according to the original[16] Nanakshahi Calendar passed by Sri Akal Takht in 2003. However, many people and organizations would like to keep the traditional date by celebrating on the Full Moon Day (Pooranmashi or Purnima) of the Lunar Month Kartik. The original Nanakshahi Calendar follows the tradition and celebrates it on Kartik Purnima due to demands by various Sikh Saints.[17]

Significance

Guru Nanak Dev preached that any person could connect to God by worshipping with clear conscience. He forbade rituals like animal sacrifices. His teachings are included in Guru Granth Sahib.[18]

The festival

Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, the birthplace of Guru Nanak

The celebration is generally similar for all Sikhs; only the hymns are different. The celebrations usually commence with Prabhat Pheris. Prabhat Pheris are early morning processions that begin at the Gurudwaras and proceed around the localities singing hymns. Generally, two days before the birthday, Akhand Path (a forty-eight-hour non-stop reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of the Sikhs) is held in the Gurdwaras.[19]

The day prior to the birthday, a procession, referred to as Nagarkirtan,[20] is organised. This procession is led by the Panj Pyaras (Five Beloved Ones).[21][22] They head the procession carrying the Sikh flag, known as the Nishan Sahib and the Palki (Palanquin) of Guru Granth Sahib.[23] They are followed by teams of singers singing hymns[22] and devotees sing the chorus. There are brass bands playing different tunes and 'Gatka' teams display their swordsmanship through various martial arts and as mock battles using traditional weapons.[21][20] The procession pours into the streets of the town. The passage is covered with banners and gates are decorated flags and flowers, for this special occasion.[21][20] The leaders spreading the message of Guru Nanak.[21]

Guru Nanak Jayanti 2010 at Pune, Maharashtra, India

On the day of the Gurpurab, the celebrations commence/begin early in the morning at about 4 to 5 a.m.[20][21] This time of the day is referred to as Amrit Vela. The day begins with the singing of Asaa-Ki-Vaar (morning hymns).[20][21] This is followed by any combination of Katha[20] (exposition of the scripture) and Kirtan (hymns from the Sikh scriptures), in the praise of the Guru.[21] Following that is the Langar, a special community lunch, which is arranged at the Gurudwaras by volunteers. The idea behind the free communal lunch is that everyone, irrespective of gender, caste, class or creed,[24] should be offered food in the spirit of seva (service) and bhakti (devotion).

Night prayer sessions are also held in some Gurudwaras, which begin around sunset when Rehras (evening prayer) is recited, followed by Kirtan till late at night.[21] The congregation starts singing Gurbani at about 1:20 a.m., which is the actual time of birth of Guru Nanak. The celebrations culminate at around 2 a.m.[21] Guru Nanak Gurpurab is celebrated by the Sikh community all over the world and is one of the most important festivals in the Sikh calendar. The celebrations are especially colorful in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh and many more locations like in parts of Pakistan and England. Even some Sindhis celebrate this festival.[25] Celebrating the auspicious day, the Punjab government has announced that it will install chairs dedicated to the great saint in 11 universities. The announcement was made on 11 November 2019.[26]

Public Holiday

Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated as public holiday in following places:

Country States/Provinces
India [27] Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal

References

  1. ↑ "Movable Holidays". nanakshahi.net. Archived from the original on 30 August 2019. Retrieved 22 November 2018.
  2. ↑ "Movable Holidays". nanakshahi.net. Set year to 2020, and click "Get Dates". Archived from the original on 30 August 2019. Retrieved 22 November 2018.
  3. ↑ "Movable Holidays". nanakshahi.net. Set year to 2021, and click "Get Dates". Archived from the original on 30 August 2019. Retrieved 22 November 2018.
  4. ↑ "When is Guru Nanak Jayanti for the next 10 years (2022 to 2032) ?".
  5. ↑ "When is Guru Nanak Jayanti for the next 10 years (2022 to 2032) ?".
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 Singh Purewal, Pal. "Birth Date of Guru Nanak Sahib" (PDF). Purewal's Page. Pal Singh Purewal. Archived (PDF) from the original on 22 February 2015. Retrieved 16 June 2017.
  7. ↑ "Happy Gurpurab 2020: Guru Nanak Jayanti Wishes Images, Status, Quotes, Wallpapers, Messages, Photos". The Indian Express. 30 November 2020. Retrieved 30 November 2020.
  8. ↑ "Guru Nanak Jayanti 2019: History, significance and traditions". Hindustan Times. 11 November 2019. Archived from the original on 14 December 2019. Retrieved 5 May 2020.
  9. ↑ "Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Sikh 10 Gurus". Sikh legendaries. 3 May 2020. Archived from the original on 28 November 2020. Retrieved 5 May 2020.
  10. ↑ Singh Purewal, Pal. "Vaisakhi Dates Range According To Indian Ephemeris By Swamikannu Pillai – i.e. English Date on 1 Vaisakh Bikrami" (PDF). Pal Singh Purewal. Archived (PDF) from the original on 4 October 2018. Retrieved 25 June 2017.
  11. ↑ "Guru Nanak Dev ji (1469–1539)". Archived from the original on 30 August 2007. Retrieved 26 December 2011.
  12. ↑ "Guru Nanak Jayanti in India". www.timeanddate.com. Retrieved 28 November 2020.
  13. ↑ Singh Mehboob, Harinder. As the Sun of Suns Rose: The Darkness of the Creeds Was Dispelled.
  14. ↑ Singh Purewal, Pal. "Movable Dates of Gurpurbs" (PDF). www.purewal.biz. www.purewal.biz. Archived (PDF) from the original on 22 December 2018. Retrieved 4 November 2017.
  15. ↑ "Guru Nanak Jayanti 2021: Who is the God of Guru Nanak Sahib?". SA News Channel. 16 November 2021. Retrieved 19 November 2021.
  16. ↑ "Mool Nanakshai Calendar (MNC) Implementation Conference". SikhNet. 16 November 2017. Archived from the original on 7 February 2018. Retrieved 28 November 2020.
  17. ↑ "Sikhism Religion of the Sikh People". www.sikhs.org. sikhs.org. Archived from the original on 4 December 2018. Retrieved 22 November 2018.
  18. ↑ "Guru Nanak Jayanti 2021: When is Gurpurab? Date, significance, history and all you need to know". Hindustan Times. 17 November 2021. Retrieved 20 November 2021.
  19. ↑ Rumi, Faryal (24 November 2020). "'Prabhat pheri' to set off from Patna Sahib gurdwara today". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 25 November 2020. Retrieved 24 November 2020.
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 20.2 20.3 20.4 20.5 "GURPURBS". Archived from the original on 1 June 2009.
  21. ↑ 21.0 21.1 21.2 21.3 21.4 21.5 21.6 21.7 21.8 "What's your point?". Sikhpoint.com. Archived from the original on 22 September 2019. Retrieved 12 November 2019.
  22. ↑ 22.0 22.1 "Guru Nanak". Archived from the original on 8 November 2011. Retrieved 26 December 2011.
  23. ↑ "Gurpurab 2020 date: All you need to know about Guru Nanak Jayanti". The Times of India. 27 November 2020. Retrieved 30 November 2020.
  24. ↑ "Guru Purab". Archived from the original on 24 December 2011. Retrieved 26 December 2011.
  25. ↑ Satpathy, Kriti Saraswat (14 November 2016). "Guru Nanak Jayanti: Why and how Gurpurab is celebrated in India". India News, Breaking News, Entertainment News | India.com. Archived from the original on 28 November 2020. Retrieved 25 November 2020.
  26. ↑ "Punjab government to install chair dedicated to Guru Nanak Dev in 11 universities". Hindustan Times. 11 November 2019. Archived from the original on 12 November 2019. Retrieved 12 November 2019.
  27. ↑ "Guru Nanak Jayanti 2020, 2021 and 2022". PublicHolidays.in. Archived from the original on 30 September 2020. Retrieved 28 April 2020.


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