Gurpurab 2023: Check date, timings, history, significance and rituals of Guru Nanak Jayanti
Gurpurab 2023: Gurpurab also known as Guru Nanak's Parkash Utsav and Guru Nanak Jayanti, marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the 10 Sikh gurus.
The auspicious occasion is observed on the full moon date of Kartik month or Kartik Purnima every year.
Also known as Parkash Utsav, Guru Nanak Jayanti will be celebrated on November 27 (Monday) this year.
This year the most sacred festivals in Sikhism Gurpurab falls on November 27, 2023 (Monday)
The Purnima Tithi will begin at 03:53 pm on November 26 and end at 02:45 pm on November 27
The history of Gurpurab is closely tied to the lives and teachings of the Sikh Gurus. Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the 15th century in the Indian subcontinent. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was followed by a succession of nine Gurus, each of whom contributed to the development and spread of Sikhism.
A man of peace, equality and tolerance - Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 at Rai Bhoi di Talwandi village, now known as Nankana Sahib, near Lahore in present-day Pakistan.
Guru Nanak Dev Ji composed many hymns, which were collected in the Adi Granth by Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He visited pilgrimage sites throughout India. The main verses from the Guru Granth Sahib elaborate that the creator of the universe is one. His verses also propagate selfless service to humanity.
The word Gurpurab is a combination of two words: "Gur" (meaning Guru) and "Purab" (meaning day or occasion). Gurpurab is primarily celebrated to commemorate the lives and teachings of the Sikh Gurus. Sikhs believe that the Gurus were divinely inspired and played a crucial role in guiding the Sikh community on the path of righteousness
Gurpurab celebrations begins with 'Prabhat Pheris' with devotees singing hymns two days prior to the festival and proceed to the localities.
People observe 'Akhand Path' by reciting Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of the Sikhs. Devotees also conduct 'Nagar kirtan' a day before Guru Nanak's birth anniversary. The procession is led by five men, referred to as the 'Panj Pyare', holding the Sikh triangular flag, Nishan Sahib.
Prayers are held in Gurdwaras through the day on Gurpurab. The different aspects of the celebration go on till night and devotees partake langar.
Happy Gurpurab 2023!
- With inputs from agencies
