Guru Nanak Jayanti, often referred to as Gurpurab, is the most significant holiday for adherents of the Sikhism faith. It is commemorated to mark the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the first Sikh Guru. The occasion is celebrated on Kartik Poornima, which is the 15 lunar day of the Hindu month of Kartik, and normally occurs in November on the Gregorian calendar.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2022: Guru Nanak’s 553rd birthday will be commemorated on Tuesday, 8 November 2022.
Guru Nanak Jayanti’s History
Guru Nanak was born on April 15, 1469, in Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi, a village near Lahore in modern-day Pakistan’s Sekhpura district. At his birthplace in the town now called Nankana Sahib, a Gurudwara was constructed. It is situated in Pakistan’s Punjab province. Guru Nanak is widely considered the founder of Sikhism in the fifteenth century. He began composing the Guru Granth Sahib as well as eventually finished 974 songs.
The Guru Granth Sahib’s central passages focus on the fact that the universe’s creator was singular. Additionally, his lyrics encourage selfless devotion to mankind, wealth, and social justice for everyone, regardless of their differences. The Guru’s function as a spiritual and social teacher is central to the Sikh faith.
Celebrations of Gurpurab
Two days previous to Guru Nanak Jayanti, celebrations begin at Gurudwaras. Akhand Path is a 48-hour continuous recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib. A parade called Nagarkirtan is held the day before Guru Nanak’s birthday. Five men, known as the Panj Pyare, lead the parade while carrying the Sikh triangle flag, Nishan Sahib.
During the procession, the sacred Guru Grant Sahib is put on a palanquin. Individuals and groups sing hymns, perform traditional musical instruments, and demonstrate their martial arts abilities. The festive parade winds through streets festooned with flags and flowers.
Significance of Guru Nanak
Guru Nanak Dev proclaimed that anybody might attain God’s presence by worshiping with a pure conscience. He prohibited ceremonies such as animal sacrifice. Guru Granth Sahib contains his teachings.
Langar
Langar, which originates in Persian, translates as ‘an almshouse’ or ‘a place for the destitute and needy. That is the term given to a communal kitchen in the Sikh culture. The principle of Langar is to feed everyone in need – regardless of caste, class, race, or gender – and to always treat them as the Guru’s guests.
The processions and festivities on Guru Nanak Jayanti are accompanied by langar prepared by volunteers at Gurudwaras.
Sikhism and Volunteerism
Many gurdwaras have stepped up in recent years to give shelter and food to people in need. Whether in India or overseas, the Sikh community is seen assisting others in the finest manner imaginable.
FAQs About Gurpurab
Gurpurab, more generally referred to as Guru Nanak Jayanti, is the day commemorating Guru Nanak Dev’s birth anniversary as the founder of Sikhism and the first of the Sikh Gurus.
Guru Purab initially emerged during the guru’s era. It is derived from the Sanskrit term Purab (or Parva), which means festival or celebration, and the word guru.
Gurudwara chefs provide special cuisine to commemorate Gurupurab. Langar serves foods such as Chana dal, Kada prasad, Kheer, Sheera, and Jalebis. Additionally, many prepare delectable treats at home to commemorate the day and to induce a celebratory atmosphere.
Gurpurab festivities are celebrated with great zeal and pleasure at Amritsar’s Golden Temple.
Conclusion
Now that you know everything about Gurpurab, it’s time to get ready to celebrate this festival with a lot of pomp and love! For more blogs about popular Indian festivals, keep reading Seema!
