New Delhi: Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurupurab or Prakash Utsav, is one of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism, celebrating the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji (1469–1539 C.E.), the founder of Sikhism and the first Sikh Guru. The day is marked by devotion, service, and the remembrance of the Guru’s timeless teachings on equality, truth, and compassion.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025 Date and Time
In 2025, Guru Nanak Jayanti will be observed on Wednesday, November 5.
According to Drik Panchang, the Kartik Purnima Tithi begins at 10:36 PM on November 4 and concludes at 6:48 PM on November 5, marking the auspicious day for devotees across the world.
The festival coincides with Kartik Purnima, the full moon day of the Kartik month, which is also considered spiritually significant in Hindu tradition.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025: Historical Background
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Rai Bhoi Ki Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib, near Lahore in present-day Pakistan. He was born to Mehta Kalu Chand and Mata Tripta Devi.
From a young age, Guru Nanak questioned social hierarchies, superstitions, and religious orthodoxy. His teachings emphasized:
- Oneness of God
- Equality among all people, regardless of caste, creed, or gender
- Selfless service (Seva)
- Truthful living (Satya)
- Meditation on God’s name (Naam Japna)
Guru Nanak’s message of universal brotherhood and compassion transcends religion and continues to inspire humanity even after more than five centuries.
Significance of Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Jayanti holds immense spiritual importance as it reminds devotees of Guru Nanak’s core principles — truth, equality, humility, and service.
He advocated a path of peace, harmony, and devotion, urging people to rise above divisions and embrace love for all beings. His teachings form the foundation of Sikh philosophy, compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of the Sikhs.
Guru Nanak Jayanti Celebrations
The celebrations of Guru Nanak Jayanti begin two days before the main festival with the Akhand Path, a 48-hour continuous recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib in Gurudwaras.
1. Nagar Kirtan (Religious Procession):
A day before the Gurupurab, devotees participate in Nagar Kirtan, a grand procession led by the Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved Ones). The procession includes singing of devotional hymns, display of Sikh martial arts (Gatka), and spiritual messages from the Guru’s teachings.
2. Prabhat Pheris:
On the main day, Prabhat Pheris — early morning processions — begin from local Gurudwaras. Devotees sing hymns (Shabads) and listen to Katha (spiritual discourses) recounting the life and teachings of Guru Nanak.
3. Langar (Community Feast):
The day concludes with Langar, a community meal served to everyone, irrespective of religion, caste, or status. Prepared and distributed by volunteers, the Langar embodies Guru Nanak’s ideals of equality and selfless service.
Global Celebrations
Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated with great devotion not only in Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi, but also across India and abroad — including Pakistan (Nankana Sahib), the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, and Southeast Asia. Gurudwaras around the world organize special prayers, kirtans, and community services to mark the occasion.
Key Details at a Glance
- 📅 Date: Wednesday, November 5, 2025
- 🕕 Kartik Purnima Tithi: Begins 10:36 PM (Nov 4) | Ends 6:48 PM (Nov 5)
- 🛕 Main Rituals: Akhand Path, Nagar Kirtan, Prabhat Pheris, Langar
- 📍 Place of Birth: Nankana Sahib, Pakistan
- 🙏 Significance: Birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, founder of Sikhism