When Is Guru Nanak Jayanti In 2023? Know Gurpurab History, Guru's Teachings And All About Prakash Parv

Guru Nanak Jayanti 2023 Date and Time: Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurupurab or Prakash Parv, is a joyous and sacred festival celebrated by Sikhs around the world to commemorate the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. It usually falls in November, as per the Gregorian calendar. The auspicious day of Gurupurab is most important for the followers of Sikhism and is celebrated with great devotion and zeal across the country especially in Punjab and Haryana. The Prakash Parv is widely celebrated in other countries around the world such as the UK, United States, Canada, And Australia other countries where Sikhs are residents.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born on April 15, 1469, at Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib in present-day Pakistan. A Gurudwara (Sikh place of worship) was also built at his birthplace which is popularly known as Nankana Sahib. His teachings emphasise the oneness of God, equality, compassion, and the importance of honest living. Guru Nanak's teachings laid the foundation for Sikhism, a religion that promotes harmony, tolerance, and selfless service.

Guru Nanak Jayanti 2023 | Canva

On Guru Nanak Jayanti, Sikhs across the globe gather at gurdwaras to participate in prayer sessions known as Akhand Path, which is a 48-hour non-stop recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. The holy book was initially written by Guru Nanak Dev Ji and he completed 974 hymns. The celebrations often include processions, singing of hymns, and langar, a community kitchen where everyone, regardless of caste or creed, is welcome to share a meal together.

The day holds special significance for Sikhs as an opportunity to reflect on Guru Nanak's teachings and principles. His teachings revolve around the idea of "Ik Onkar," meaning there is one God, and all humans are equal in the eyes of the divine. Guru Nanak's emphasis on humility, selfless service, and equality continues to inspire people of all backgrounds.

As the sacred festival of Guru Nanak Jayanti is just around the corner, here know when it will be celebrated in 2023, its history, significance, celebration, Guru Nanak Dev Ji teachings, and more about the festival.

When is Guru Nanak Jayanti 2023?

According to the Nanakshahi calendar, Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born on 15 April 1469 According to the Hindu calendar, Gurupurab is celebrated every year on the day of Kartik Poornima, which is the fifteenth lunar day in the month of Kartik, 15 days after Diwali, and this year the festival will be celebrated on Monday, November 27, 2023 and Purnima Tithi begin on Sunday, November 26th at 03:53 PM and will end on Monday, November 27th at 02:45 PM. This year 554th birth anniversary will be celebrated of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Guru Nanak Jayanti History, Significance, and All about Guru Nanak Devi Ji

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born on 15 April 1469 in the village of Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib in Pakistan, was the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. He played a significant role in shaping the Sikh religion and its principles.

Guru Nanak showed a deep interest in spirituality and a compassionate nature at a very young age. He rejected societal divisions based on caste and religion, emphasising the oneness of God and the equality of all people. His teachings centered on love, equality, and devotion to a formless, transcendent God.

One of Guru Nanak's most well-known teachings is the concept of "Ik Onkar," meaning "There is only one God." This principle underscores the monotheistic nature of Sikhism and encourages unity among people of different backgrounds.

Guru Nanak embarked on four extensive journeys, known as Udasis, to spread his message. During these travels, he engaged in conversations with people of various faiths, emphasising the universality of divine truth. He used simple language and relatable stories to convey his teachings, making them accessible to people from all walks of life.

The Guru's teachings were compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. The holy book contains 5877 hymns or Shabads/Sloks and out of 974 hymns have been written by Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The Guru Granth Sahib is not only a religious text but also a guide for leading a righteous and meaningful life. Guru Nanak's hymns, known as Gurbani, promote selfless service, honest living, and devotion to God.

Guru Nanak's legacy extends beyond the religious realm. His emphasis on social justice, equality, and community service laid the foundation for the Sikh community's values. Sikhs today continue to follow his teachings, striving to live by the principles of compassion, humility, and service to humanity.

Guru Nanak Jayanti celebration

Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrations start two days prior to the day of Guru Nanak Jayanti in the Gurudwaras. In Gurudwaras, a 48-hour non-stop recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib, called Akhand Path, is held, followed by a Nagarkirtan a day before the festival. The procession called Nagarkirtan is led by five men, referred to as the Panj Pyare, holding the Sikh triangular flag, Nishan Sahib, and during the Nagarkirtan, the holy, Guru Granth Sahib, is placed in a palanquin, people sing hymns in groups, play traditional musical instruments, and display their martial art skills. The Nagarkirtan passes through streets across the country, decorated with flags and flowers.

What is the story behind Langar?

Langar, originally a Persian term, means 'a place for the poor and needy' or 'an almshouse.' In Sikh tradition, it refers to a community kitchen. The idea behind Langar is to offer food to anyone in need, without considering their caste, class, religion, or gender. All are welcomed as guests of the Guru. But there's an interesting story about how Langar started. It is said that when Guru Nanak Dev Ji was about 12 years old, his father who was a trader by profession wanted him to learn?"Sacha Sauda" (a good deal) and take of the family business.?

He gave Guru Nanak some money for a good trade. While on his way, Guru Nanak encountered hungry, poor people. Instead of making a profit, he used the money to buy groceries and cook simple, healthy food to feed them. When asked about the lack of profit, Guru Nanak explained that true profit lies in helping others without expecting anything in return. This selfless idea led to the tradition of Langar in Sikhism.

The system of Langar became more organised under his successors. It is believed that when Akbar visited the third guru, Guru Amar Das ji, he also joined common people for a meal in the Langar.

There is another reason for starting langar. In a time when the caste system and class differences were widespread in India, langar was introduced to promote equality. This sentiment still holds true today. Interestingly, most of the work, from cooking to serving, is done by volunteers who are often strangers. However, the sense of community that comes with being part of the langar motivates them to participate in this sacred process and ensure that everything runs smoothly.

Guru Nanak Dev ji Udasi (Travel)

Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, embarked on several extensive journeys, popularly known as Udasis, to spread his message of love, equality, and oneness of God.?It is believed that Guru Nanak Dev Ji covered North, East, West, and South and walked 28,000 km during his 5 Udasi (Tour)?Guru Nanak Dev's travels took place during the late 15th and early 16th centuries, covering vast regions of South Asia and the Middle East. The purpose of Guru Nanak's journeys was to promote spiritual enlightenment, unity, and understanding among people of different faiths.

First Udasi (1500-1506):

Guru Nanak's first journey took him towards the eastern regions of India. He visited various places, including Delhi, Panipat, Sultanpur, Tulamba (modern Makhdumpur, zila Multan), Banaras (Varanasi), Nanakmata (zila Nainital, U.P.), Tanda Vanjara (zila Rampur), Kamrup (Assam), Asa Desh (Assam), Saidpur (modern Eminabad, Pakistan), Pasrur (Pakistan), Sialkot (Pakistan). During this Udasi, Guru Nanak engaged in spiritual dialogues with different religious leaders, emphasising the universality of God's message.

Second Udasi (1506-1507):

During the second Udasi, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, covered areas such as Sangladip, and Dhanasri Valley. He was 37 years old when he started his second Udasi.

Third Udasi (1507-1513):

During the third Udasi, Guru Nanak traveled to important cities like Tibet, Sikkim, Tashkand, Nepal, Sumer Parbat, and Kashmir. He was 45 years old when he started his second Udasi.

Fourth Udasi (1513-1518):

During the fourth Udasi, Guru Nanak traveled to Mecca and the Arab countries and interacted with the people, spreading his message of unity and love for humanity. He was 50 years old at the time.

Fifth Udasi (1518-1521):

Guru Nanak's fifth Udasi took him places within the Punjab and settled down in Kartarpur before leaving his physical form.

Throughout his journeys, Guru Nanak emphasized the importance of living a truthful and honest life, treating all individuals with respect, and recognizing the divine presence in every being. His travels were not just physical journeys but symbolic representations of breaking barriers and connecting with people of different faiths and backgrounds.

Guru Nanak's teachings laid the foundation for Sikhism, emphasizing the principles of equality, selfless service, and devotion to the one true God. His travels were instrumental in establishing a universal and inclusive approach to spirituality, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.

Life-changing lessons & teachings from Guru Nanak Dev Ji

1. Ik Onkar means there is only one God

"There is but One God. His name is Truth; He is the Creator. He fears none; he is without hate. He never dies; He is beyond the cycle of births and death. He is self-illuminated. He is realized by the kindness of the True Guru. He was True in the beginning; He was True when the ages commenced and has ever been True. He is also True now."

2. Kirat Karo means work honestly

"Whatever kind of seed is sown in a field, prepared in due season, a plant of that same kind, marked with the peculiar qualities of the seed, springs up in it."

3. Vand Shhakō means share and consume

"If the people use the wealth bestowed on them by God for themselves alone or for treasuring it, it is like a corpse. But if they decide to share it with others, it becomes sacred food."

4. Sewa means selfless service

"Sing the songs of joy to the Lord, serve the name of the Lord, and become the servant of His servants."

5. Equality

"He who regards all men as equals is religious."

6. Respect women

"Why to disrespect the one who gives birth to the majestic kings of the world"

7. God is omnipresent

"From its brilliancy, everything is illuminated."

8. Kindness and compassion

"Asceticism doesn’t lie in mere words; He is an ascetic who treats everyone alike. Asceticism doesn’t lie in visiting burial places; it lies not in wandering about nor in bathing at places of pilgrimage. Asceticism is to remain pure amidst impurities."

9. Fight the five evils within yourself

Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught that the true meaning of life is attained when one can merge with the Supreme Being. But there are five evils in life that stop us from doing so. He listed them as Ego, Anger, Greed, Attachment, and Lust. Overcoming these vices is the only way to get closer to the Divine Being.

How to celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti?

Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, is a significant Sikh festival that celebrates the birth of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. Here are some ways to celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti:

Visit the Gurdwara:

Begin the day by visiting a Gurdwara, the Sikh place of worship. Attend the special prayers and kirtan (devotional singing) sessions held in honor of Guru Nanak.

Langar Seva (Community Kitchen Service):

Participate in langar seva, where volunteers come together to prepare and serve free meals to the community. This practice symbolizes equality and selfless service.

Nagar Kirtan (Religious Procession):

Join or organize a Nagar Kirtan, a religious procession that involves singing hymns, carrying the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of Sikhism), and spreading the message of Guru Nanak's teachings.

Read and Recite Guru Granth Sahib:

Spend time reading and reciting verses from the Guru Granth Sahib. Reflect on the teachings of Guru Nanak and their relevance to contemporary life.

Sewa (Selfless Service):

Engage in acts of selfless service, known as sewa, such as helping those in need, volunteering at local charities, or contributing to community development projects.

Kirtan and Katha:

Attend or organize kirtan (devotional music) and katha (scripture discourse) programs to learn more about the teachings of Guru Nanak and Sikh philosophy.

Educational Programs:

Arrange educational programs that focus on the life, teachings, and philosophy of Guru Nanak. Invite speakers or scholars to share insights with the community.

Community Gatherings:

Organize community gatherings or feasts where people can come together to celebrate, share meals, and strengthen community bonds.

Decorate Homes and Gurdwaras:

Decorate homes and Gurdwaras with lights and flowers to create a festive atmosphere. This symbolizes the joyous occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti.

Prayer and Meditation:

Spend time in personal prayer and meditation, reflecting on the teachings of Guru Nanak and seeking spiritual growth.

Guru Nanak Jayanti holiday

In 2023, Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated on Monday, November 27, 2023, to mark the 554th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev ji, the first Sikh Guru, and a public holiday will be observed in state of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.

Guru Nanak Jayanti Dates in 2024 to 2028

Guru Nanak Jayanti 2023: FAQs

Q: What is Guru Nanak Jayanti?

A: Guru Nanak Jayanti is a Sikh festival that celebrates the birth of Guru Nanak, the first Guru of Sikhism. It is one of the most important festivals in Sikhism and is celebrated by Sikhs all over the world.?

Q: When is Guru Nanak Jayanti celebrated?

A: Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Kartik in the Hindu calendar. In 2023, Guru Nanak Jayanti will be celebrated on Monday, November 27.

Q: What are the religious significance of Guru Nanak Jayanti?

A: Guru Nanak Jayanti is a time for Sikhs to reflect on the teachings of Guru Nanak and to renew their commitment to living a life of faith and compassion. Guru Nanak was a spiritual leader and reformer who taught the importance of equality, compassion, and service to others. He is considered to be the founder of Sikhism, which is a monotheistic religion that emphasizes the importance of a personal relationship with God.

Q: What are the cultural significance of Guru Nanak Jayanti?

A: Guru Nanak Jayanti is a time for Sikhs to come together as a community and celebrate their faith. Sikhs gather at gurdwaras, or Sikh temples, to pray, sing hymns, and listen to readings from the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy book. They also participate in community service projects and donate to charity.

Q: Why is Guru Nanak Jayanti a public holiday in India?

A: Guru Nanak Jayanti is a public holiday in India because it is a significant festival for the Sikh community, which is a major minority in India. The Indian government recognizes the importance of this festival to the Sikh community and recognizes it as a public holiday to allow Sikhs to celebrate their faith.

(Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.)
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