Guru Nanak Biography for Students: Early Life, Spiritual Journeys and Core Teachings
Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji was the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. He taught about equality, truth, and the oneness of God. In 2025, his teachings continue to inspire millions across the world. Learning about his life through the Guru Nanak Biography helps students understand respect and unity among people.
Quick Facts
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji |
| Born | 15 April 1469, Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan) |
| Died (if applicable) | 22 September 1539, Kartarpur, Pakistan |
| Nationality | Indian (historic), now revered globally |
| Profession or Role | Religious leader, Spiritual teacher |
| Known For | Founder of Sikhism; Teaching equality and peace |
Early Life and Family
Guru Nanak was born on 15 April 1469 in the village of Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi, close to Lahore. His father, Mehta Kalu, was a village official and his mother, Tripta, was known for her kindness. He had an elder sister named Nanki. From an early age, Guru Nanak asked deep questions about God and the practices happening in society.
Education
Guru Nanak learned many subjects as a child, including Sanskrit, Persian, and Hindi. He learned from local teachers in his village and nearby towns. By the age of 16, he was skilled in languages and deeply interested in spiritual topics. His sister, Nanki, also supported and guided him in learning.
Career and Major Works
Guru Nanak worked at a granary in Sultanpur Lodhi for a period but focused on helping people and teaching about God. He began important spiritual journeys at age 30. On these travels, he shared messages against casteism and spoke about the role of women in society. The guru nanak birthday date is celebrated every year in his remembrance. The guru nanak dev ji death date marks his passing and is respected by millions. His teachings are recorded in the holy book called the Guru Granth Sahib.
- Started four major spiritual journeys from 1500 to 1524. These travels spread his teachings across Asia.
- Established Kartarpur in 1522 as a place for followers to learn and live his teachings together.
Major Contributions and Achievements
Guru Nanak’s main ideas changed how people viewed religion and society in India. His contributions continue shaping the world in 2025. He started new practices for serving others and showed that all people are equal before God.
- He opposed caste discrimination and taught everyone to treat each other with respect and kindness.
- Encouraged the practice called Langar, which is a free community meal served to all, first started in the early years of Sikhism.
Awards and Honors
| Award or Recognition | Year | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| First Sikh Guru (Title) | 1499 | Recognised as the founder of Sikhism |
| Kartarpur Sahib Memorial | 1539 | Established at his place of passing, for spiritual learning |
Timeline
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1469 | Born in Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan). |
| 1487 | Married Mata Sulakhni. |
| 1500-1524 | Travelled on major spiritual journeys to spread his teachings. |
| 1522 | Founded Kartarpur, where many followers gathered. |
| 1539 | Passed away in Kartarpur. |
Influence and Legacy
Guru Nanak’s ideas helped shape a new religion focused on service and unity. He inspired people to help the poor and protect the rights of women. Sikhs and many others still try to live by his example in 2025.
Notable Quotes
- “There is no Hindu or Muslim. All are the children of God.”
- “Speak the truth and do honest deeds.”
Interesting Facts
- Guru Nanak travelled over 28,000 kilometers during his life to spread his message.
- Every year, Sikhs celebrate guru nanak birthday date on the full moon day in the month of Kartik (October or November).
In 2025, Guru Nanak’s teachings continue to guide people toward goodness, service, and peace. Students can learn from his life how to respect others and work for the welfare of all. The Guru Nanak Biography reminds us to treat everyone equally and live with honesty.
FAQs on Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji: Biography, Teachings and Lasting Impact
1. Who is Guru Nanak Dev? Also, mention Guru Nanak's Birth Place and death place of Guru Nanak.
Guru Nanak Dev is regarded as the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. He was a prominent Indian spiritual leader committed to harmony, equality, and devotion to one God. Guru Nanak was born on 15 April 1469 in "Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi" (now known as Nankana Sahib in present-day Pakistan). He passed away on 22 September 1539 in Kartarpur, Pakistan, where he established a spiritual community that remains significant for Sikhs worldwide.
2. Describe Guru Nanak Dev Ji History in Brief.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Guru and founder of Sikhism, dedicated his life to spreading messages of humanity, equality, and service. Born in 1469 in Talwandi, he was respected by people of all faiths. He challenged social evils, promoted the dignity of women, and undertook four major spiritual journeys across Asia. His legacy continues to inspire millions through his teachings recorded in the Guru Granth Sahib.
3. Describe the Major Spiritual Journeys of Guru Nanak.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji embarked on four major spiritual journeys (Udaasis) between 1500 and 1524 to spread his message of oneness and equality. These journeys included:
- Visiting most parts of present-day Pakistan and India (1500–1507)
- Traveling to present-day Sri Lanka (approx. 7 years)
- Exploring the Himalayas, including Nepal, Sikkim, Tibet, and Tashkent (1514–1519)
- Visiting Mecca, Medina, and the Middle East (approx. 3 years)
He spent nearly 24 years and covered about 28,000 km, interacting with diverse communities and challenging superstitions.
4. Who is the founder of the Sikh religion, and what did he preach?
Guru Nanak Dev Ji is the founder of Sikhism. He preached that:
- God is One and present in all
- All human beings are equal, regardless of caste, gender, or creed
- Selfless service, honesty, and compassion are essential
- He rejected discrimination and ritualism, focusing on living a truthful life
His teachings are the foundation of Sikh beliefs and daily practice.
5. Write a note on the last period of the life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
In his final years, Guru Nanak Dev Ji settled in Kartarpur, where he lived until his passing in 1539. He welcomed followers of all backgrounds and created a spiritual commune based on service, equality, and devotion. Before his death, he appointed Bhai Lehna (Guru Angad Dev Ji) as his successor, starting the legacy of the Guru lineage. Kartarpur became a pivotal center of Sikh faith after his passing.
6. What is the Guru Nanak story?
The Guru Nanak story highlights the life, teachings, and influence of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Known for his compassion and wisdom from a young age, he questioned social injustices, renounced rituals, and emphasized oneness, service, and honesty. Through extensive travels, he spread his message and inspired the foundation of Sikhism, leaving a legacy cherished by millions.
7. Where was Guru Nanak born, and what is his birth place?
Guru Nanak was born on 15 April 1469 in Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi, now called Nankana Sahib, in present-day Pakistan. This historic site is a major pilgrimage destination and holds immense importance in Sikh history as the Guru's birthplace.
8. What can you tell me about Guru Nanak's death?
Guru Nanak Dev Ji passed away on 22 September 1539 in Kartarpur, Pakistan. His demise is significant for Sikhs, as it marks the end of his earthly journey and the continuation of his teachings through named successors. Both Hindus and Muslims wished to honor his passing, and his final rites reflect unity and respect for all faiths.
9. What are the key principles in Guru Nanak's teachings?
Guru Nanak's philosophies focus on the following key principles:
- Equality among all human beings
- Selfless service (seva) to others
- Meditation on God's Name (Naam Japna)
- Honest earning (Kirat Karni)
- Sharing with the needy (Vand Chakna)
These teachings encourage living a truthful, humble, and compassionate life.
10. Can you provide a brief overview of Guru Nanak Dev Ji history in English?
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Talwandi, Punjab, and showed spiritual depth from childhood. He traveled widely, spreading messages of compassion, service, and oneness with God. After his journeys, he established Kartarpur and selected Guru Angad as his successor before passing away in 1539. His life and teachings laid the foundation for the Sikh faith.
11. Who was Guru Nanak's father, and what was his father name?
Guru Nanak's father was called Mehta Kalu. He was a village official and played a significant role in Guru Nanak's early upbringing, providing him access to education and a broad perspective on society and spirituality.
12. Why is Guru Nanak's message of equality significant in present times?
Guru Nanak's message of equality, unity, and respect for all remains vital today because it:
- Challenges discrimination based on caste, gender, religion, or status
- Promotes peace, social justice, and universal brotherhood
- Inspires people across the world in 2025 to build inclusive, compassionate, and harmonious communities following his timeless teachings.
