Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025: Date, Significance and Sacred Traditions You Should Know
Guru Nanak Jayanti , also known as Gurpurab or Guru Parv, is one of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism . It marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji , the founder of Sikhism and a universal teacher whose teachings of equality, humility, and devotion continue to inspire millions worldwide.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 Date and Significance
In 2025, Guru Nanak Jayanti will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 5, marking the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The day coincides with Kartik Purnima , the full moon day of the Kartik month, which is considered highly auspicious in both the Sikh and Hindu calendars.
This festival not only commemorates the birth of a divine soul but also celebrates the values of compassion, peace, and service that form the foundation of Sikh philosophy.
The Birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 CE in Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib in modern-day Pakistan. His parents, Mehta Kalu Chand and Mata Tripta Devi, raised him in a humble household. From a young age, Guru Nanak displayed deep spiritual insight and questioned social divisions based on caste, creed, or religion.
His teachings centred on the belief in one universal God - a message encapsulated in his eternal words:
“Ek Onkar Satnam, Karta Purakh, Nirbhau, Nirvair”
Meaning: “There is one God. His name is Truth. He is the Creator, Fearless, and Without Hatred.”
Through his wisdom, Guru Nanak Dev Ji promoted the path of truth, selfless service (seva), and devotion to God - values that remain profoundly relevant even today.
How Guru Nanak Jayanti is Celebrated
The celebrations of Guru Nanak Jayanti begin two days in advance with the Akhand Path , a 48-hour non-stop recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. This continuous reading symbolises devotion, discipline, and unity within the community.
On the morning of Gurpurab, devotees participate in Prabhat Pheris - early morning processions filled with melodious hymns and prayers. These are followed by Nagar Kirtans, where the Guru Granth Sahib is carried in a beautifully decorated palki (palanquin) through the streets. Accompanied by devotional singing, traditional music, and vibrant displays of Gatka (Sikh martial art), the atmosphere turns deeply spiritual and joyous.
Langar Seva : The Spirit of Selfless Service
A highlight of Guru Nanak Jayanti is the Langar Seva, or community kitchen, held in every gurudwara. Volunteers prepare and serve free meals to all visitors, regardless of religion, background, or social status. This selfless act of service beautifully embodies Guru Nanak’s timeless message of equality and unity.
Gurudwaras across the world are decorated with flowers and illuminated lights, creating a serene ambience filled with devotion and harmony. Throughout the day, devotees gather for kirtans, ardaas (prayers), and discourses on Guru Nanak’s life and teachings. The celebrations conclude with night prayers and candlelit hymns that echo through the sacred spaces, symbolising the light of divine wisdom.
Spiritual Message of Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Jayanti serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings in today’s world. His principles of love, humility, and service transcend religious boundaries and encourage humanity to walk the path of truth and compassion.
As devotees celebrate Gurpurab 2025, they not only honour the birth of a great spiritual leader but also strive to live by his divine philosophy - “Naam Japo, Kirat Karo, Vand Chakko” - meditate on God’s name, earn an honest living, and share with others.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 is more than a religious occasion - it is a celebration of light, unity, and faith. From the chants of sacred hymns to the aroma of langar, every tradition reflects Guru Nanak’s vision of a harmonious and inclusive world. As we observe this sacred day on November 5, 2025, let us embrace his timeless message: “There is one God, and His name is Truth.”
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 Date and Significance
In 2025, Guru Nanak Jayanti will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 5, marking the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The day coincides with Kartik Purnima , the full moon day of the Kartik month, which is considered highly auspicious in both the Sikh and Hindu calendars.
This festival not only commemorates the birth of a divine soul but also celebrates the values of compassion, peace, and service that form the foundation of Sikh philosophy.
The Birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 CE in Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib in modern-day Pakistan. His parents, Mehta Kalu Chand and Mata Tripta Devi, raised him in a humble household. From a young age, Guru Nanak displayed deep spiritual insight and questioned social divisions based on caste, creed, or religion.
His teachings centred on the belief in one universal God - a message encapsulated in his eternal words:
“Ek Onkar Satnam, Karta Purakh, Nirbhau, Nirvair”
Meaning: “There is one God. His name is Truth. He is the Creator, Fearless, and Without Hatred.”
Through his wisdom, Guru Nanak Dev Ji promoted the path of truth, selfless service (seva), and devotion to God - values that remain profoundly relevant even today.
How Guru Nanak Jayanti is Celebrated
The celebrations of Guru Nanak Jayanti begin two days in advance with the Akhand Path , a 48-hour non-stop recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. This continuous reading symbolises devotion, discipline, and unity within the community.
On the morning of Gurpurab, devotees participate in Prabhat Pheris - early morning processions filled with melodious hymns and prayers. These are followed by Nagar Kirtans, where the Guru Granth Sahib is carried in a beautifully decorated palki (palanquin) through the streets. Accompanied by devotional singing, traditional music, and vibrant displays of Gatka (Sikh martial art), the atmosphere turns deeply spiritual and joyous.
Langar Seva : The Spirit of Selfless Service
A highlight of Guru Nanak Jayanti is the Langar Seva, or community kitchen, held in every gurudwara. Volunteers prepare and serve free meals to all visitors, regardless of religion, background, or social status. This selfless act of service beautifully embodies Guru Nanak’s timeless message of equality and unity.
Gurudwaras across the world are decorated with flowers and illuminated lights, creating a serene ambience filled with devotion and harmony. Throughout the day, devotees gather for kirtans, ardaas (prayers), and discourses on Guru Nanak’s life and teachings. The celebrations conclude with night prayers and candlelit hymns that echo through the sacred spaces, symbolising the light of divine wisdom.
Spiritual Message of Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Jayanti serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings in today’s world. His principles of love, humility, and service transcend religious boundaries and encourage humanity to walk the path of truth and compassion.
As devotees celebrate Gurpurab 2025, they not only honour the birth of a great spiritual leader but also strive to live by his divine philosophy - “Naam Japo, Kirat Karo, Vand Chakko” - meditate on God’s name, earn an honest living, and share with others.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 is more than a religious occasion - it is a celebration of light, unity, and faith. From the chants of sacred hymns to the aroma of langar, every tradition reflects Guru Nanak’s vision of a harmonious and inclusive world. As we observe this sacred day on November 5, 2025, let us embrace his timeless message: “There is one God, and His name is Truth.”
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