Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025: Date, History, and Celebrations

Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025, also known as Gurpurab or Prakash Parv, is one of the most important festivals for the Sikh community. It commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder and first Guru of Sikhism. The festival is observed on Kartik Purnima, the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik, which usually falls in November.

In 2025, Guru Nanak Jayanti will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 5. On this day, devotees across India and around the world remember Guru Nanak’s message of unity, equality, and service to humanity.

History and Origin of Guru Nanak Jayanti

Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi, in present-day Pakistan (now known as Nankana Sahib). As a deeply spiritual child, Guru Nanak grew up questioning ritualism, unjust social structures, and religious divisions. Throughout his life, he travelled extensively spreading the message of "Ik Onkar" (there is but one God) and compassion for all humanity.

The tradition of celebrating his birth as Guru Nanak Jayanti began centuries ago and has grown to include not only Sikhs but people of many faiths, highlighting values of unity and service. From small local gurdwaras to the grand Golden Temple in Amritsar, the entire Sikh community comes alive with devotion during this time.

Why is Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrated?

This celebration marks the arrival of one of India’s greatest spiritual reformers. Guru Nanak's message stands on three pillars: honest work (Kirat Karni), sharing with others (Vand Chakko), and remembering God at all times (Naam Japna). The festival reminds everyone regardless of religion, caste, or gender about the power of equality, kindness, and truthful living. It’s a time for families, students, and communities to reflect on the positive impact of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings.

Date of Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 and Festival Timeline

How Guru Nanak Jayanti is Celebrated

The celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti is marked by devotion, service, and joy across India and around the world. The preparations begin two days before the main Gurpurab, filling every Gurdwara with chants of peace and harmony. Each activity—from reading scriptures to serving langar—reflects the core teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji: equality, humility, and selfless service.

Akhand Path (Continuous Recitation of Guru Granth Sahib)

The celebration begins with an Akhand Path, a 48-hour continuous, uninterrupted reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred scripture of the Sikhs. The recitation starts two days before the Jayanti and concludes on the morning of the main day. Devotees take turns reading, ensuring that the divine verses of Gurbani (holy hymns) are heard day and night, spreading spiritual energy and devotion throughout the Gurdwara.

Nagar Kirtan (Religious Procession)

A day before Guru Nanak Jayanti, a grand Nagar Kirtan is organized in towns and cities. This colorful procession is led by the Panj Pyare (Five Beloved Ones), who walk in front carrying the Nishan Sahib (Sikh religious flag) and the Guru Granth Sahib placed in a beautifully decorated palanquin.

The streets are adorned with flowers and banners, and devotees sing kirtans (devotional songs) while performing Gatka, the traditional Sikh martial art, symbolizing bravery and discipline. Children, youth, and elders all participate, reflecting the spirit of community unity and devotion.

Langar (Community Kitchen)

On the main day, every Gurdwara organizes a Langar, a community kitchen where free meals are served to everyone—irrespective of caste, religion, or social background. Volunteers prepare and serve simple, vegetarian meals cooked with love and gratitude. The Langar embodies Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message of equality and sharing, reminding everyone that all humans are equal before God.

Gurdwara Prayers and Hymns

On the morning of Guru Nanak Jayanti, devotees gather at Gurdwaras for special prayers and kirtan sessions. The Asa-di-Var (morning hymns) are sung, followed by discourses (Katha) about Guru Nanak’s life and teachings. The halls echo with devotion as devotees recite Japji Sahib and other hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib.

Evening Celebrations and Illumination

As night falls, Gurdwaras, homes, and streets shine with lights, diyas, and candles—symbolizing spiritual enlightenment. In cities like Amritsar, the Golden Temple is beautifully decorated and illuminated, reflecting on the sacred water of the Sarovar, creating a mesmerizing sight. Fireworks, devotional singing, and Ardas (prayers) conclude the day with a sense of peace and fulfillment.

In essence, the celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti blends faith, service, and community harmony. It is not only a day of remembrance but also a renewal of commitment to live by the values of truth, equality, and compassion that Guru Nanak Dev Ji preached.

Guru Nanak Jayanti in Schools & Student Participation

Many schools organize special morning assemblies around Guru Nanak Jayanti, including:

• Explaining Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s life in easy-to-understand language

• Collective hymn singing or recitation of selected Shabads

• Poster-making, quiz, or essay competitions focusing on unity, service, or equality

• Encouraging students to volunteer in community service reflecting the spirit of Langar

• Special group projects highlighting Sikh values using stories and quotes

These activities ensure that the essence of Guru Nanak Jayanti is carried forward to new generations not just as a festival, but as a way to promote harmony, respect, and active service in society.

Inspiring Quotes for Guru Nanak Jayanti

• "There is but one God. He is the Creator, the Sustainer, and the Destroyer."

• "All human beings are equal; there is no difference between high and low."

• "Let your deeds be your prayer."

• "Speak only that which will bring you honour."

• "The greatest worship is to serve others."

• "No one is my enemy, no one is a stranger; I get along with everyone."

• "Live your life as an example for others to follow."

Educational Takeaways and Messages

Guru Nanak Jayanti teaches students valuable lessons for today’s world:

• Embrace diversity by respecting everyone’s beliefs and backgrounds.

• Promote equality in your school and community by word and action.

• Volunteer your time and energy for community welfare, inspired by the Langar tradition.

• Reflect on the ideas of unity, peace, and selfless service in group or personal projects.

• Share Guru Nanak’s timeless teachings on social media to inspire positivity and change.

Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 is not just a festival — it’s a celebration of truth, humility, and unity. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s timeless message of love and equality continues to guide people toward a better and more compassionate world. On this Gurpurab, let us follow his path of service, peace, and devotion, spreading kindness and light wherever we go.