Gurpurab / Guru Nanak Dev Jayanti 2024

Gurpurab, or Guru Nanak Prakash Utsav, celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first Sikh guru & the founder of Sikhism. Born in 1469 in the Punjab region of India, Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught the principles of unity, equality, and devotion to one God. His extensive journeys, known as Udasis, took him across India and beyond, where he spread a message of love, compassion, and spirituality. The festivities traditionally begin with Prabhat Pheris, which are early morning processions that start from local Gurudwaras & move through the surrounding areas with devotees singing hymns. Two days before the main celebration, an Akhand Path, a continuous forty-eight-hour recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib Ji (the holy ure of Sikhism), is initiated. On the day of Gurpurab, devotees visit gurdwaras to offer prayers, listen to hymns (kirtan), and engage in religious discourses (katha). The day starts with Amrit Vela, the early morning prayer, followed by acts of seva (selfless service) where dvotees prepare and serve langar, a community meal that embodies the principles of equality and togetherness. Gurdwaras are beautifully decorated with flowers, and at night, they are lit with light bulbs, a stunning visual experience. Traditional attire is commonly worn, with men in kurta-pajama or dhoti with a turban (pagri or dastaar), and women in colorful Punjabi suits or salwar kameez with matching dupattas, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Sikh community.