Close your eyes for a moment. Imagine a world without division, where the only labels that matter are 'human' and 'child of the Divine.' This was the world Guru Nanak Dev Ji envisioned over 550 years ago, and this is the vision millions celebrate every year on Guru Nanak Jayanti.
In 2025, this sacred occasion, also known as Gurpurab or Prakash Parv (the Festival of Divine Light), falls on Wednesday, November 5th. It’s more than a birthday; it’s a global remembrance of a message that continues to light the way, a message whose significance is as urgent today as it was in the 15th century.
This complete guide will walk you through the date, history, beautiful traditions, and the profound, multi-layered significance behind one of the most important festivals in the Sikh calendar.
Born in 1469 in the village of Rai Bhoi di Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan), Guru Nanak Dev Ji was a spiritual prodigy from a young age. He was not just a religious leader but a revolutionary poet, philosopher, and social reformer. From his very first words after a mystical experience in the river, "There is no Hindu, there is no Muslim," he declared a truth that transcended man-made divisions.
He rejected the rigid rituals, idol worship, and suffocating social inequalities of his time, preaching a simple, powerful path centered on three core pillars:
His message shattered barriers of caste, creed, and gender, offering a direct, personal connection with the Divine, accessible to all.
The celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti is powerful precisely because its significance is not confined to a single community or a historical event. It resonates on multiple levels—spiritual, social, and personal.
At its core, Gurpurab is a celebration of a spiritual awakening. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s most fundamental teaching is the concept of Ik Onkar—the belief in one, universal, formless Creator who is present in all of creation. This was a radical departure from the polytheistic and ritual-heavy practices of the era. He emphasized that God is not found in temples or mosques through empty rituals, but within the heart through sincere devotion and meditation. Prakash Parv, therefore, marks the "illumination" of this simple, profound truth in the world, guiding humanity away from superstition and toward a genuine, internalized faith.
Perhaps Guru Nanak’s most revolutionary impact was on the social fabric of India. In an age dominated by the oppressive caste system, he was a fearless champion of absolute equality. He declared, "Recognize the light of the Divine in all, and do not ask for caste, for there is no caste in the next world."
This was not just philosophy; it was practice. He institutionalized three groundbreaking traditions:
On Gurpurab, when millions partake in the Langar, they are not just eating a meal; they are actively participating in a lived protest against inequality, embodying a vision of a classless society. This day is a powerful reminder that our shared humanity far outweighs our superficial differences.
For the individual, Guru Nanak Jayanti is a spiritual audit—a time for introspection and realignment. His teachings provide a practical framework for a meaningful life:
The festival is a call to wake up from spiritual slumber, to cleanse one’s mind of ego, and to live a life of truthfulness, compassion, and service.
The celebration of Gurpurab isn't confined to a single day; it's a vibrant, three-day spiritual journey that envelops entire communities.
Two days before the main event, the Sri Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy scripture) is ceremoniously read from beginning to end without interruption. This 48-hour non-stop reading, called the Akhand Path, is a collective act of devotion that sanctifies the atmosphere, symbolizing the eternal and unbroken nature of the Guru’s teachings.
On the eve of Gurpurab, a sense of electric joy fills the air. The Nagar Kirtan, a grand and colourful procession, winds its way through cities and towns. It is led by the Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved Ones) and the Nishan Sahib (the Sikh flag).
The procession features:
The main day dawns with the golden hours of Amrit Vela (early morning before dawn). The celebrations peak with:
You don't have to be Sikh to honor Guru Nanak's message. This Prakash Parv, you can integrate its profound significance into your own life:
As the divine shabads echo from the Gurdwaras on November 5th, 2025, let them be a reminder. Guru Nanak Jayanti is not merely a mark on the calendar but an annual invitation. An invitation to remember our shared light, to challenge our prejudices, and to build a world where the only competition is to love more deeply and serve more selflessly.
The Prakash, or divine light, that Guru Nanak ignited was not meant to be confined to a shrine. It was meant to be kindled in every human heart. This Gurpurab, may you find that light within yourself and help it shine a little brighter in the world around you.
May this Prakash Parv bring immense light, peace, and unity into your life and the world. Stay connected with www.explorerealnews.com for more spiritual insights, festival guides, and stories that keep our traditions alive. Follow us on facebook, Instagram, Linkedln and twitter for festive real stories.
A- Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab, will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.
A- The date changes annually because it is based on the lunar calendar. Guru Nanak Jayanti is always celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu lunar month of Kartik, which typically falls in October or November on the Gregorian calendar.
A- The Akhand Path is a continuous, 48-hour recitation of the entire Guru Granth Sahib. It is a central ritual that begins two days before the main Gurpurab celebration. It symbolizes the eternal and unbroken nature of the Guru's teachings and sanctifies the environment for the festival.
A- Absolutely, yes. Everyone is welcome to join the celebrations. You can visit a Gurdwara to listen to the hymns (Kirtan), watch the Nagar Kirtan procession, and partake in the Langar (community meal). The core message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji is universal equality, and all are embraced with open arms.
A- Langar is the free, vegetarian community meal served in every Gurdwara. It is a cornerstone of Sikhism, established by Guru Nanak himself to break down social and economic barriers. By sitting together on the floor and eating the same food, everyone is considered equal, embodying the principles of selfless service, humility, and community.
A- Modest and respectful clothing is recommended. Both men and women are typically expected to cover their heads as a sign of respect. Scarves are usually available at the Gurdwara if you don't have one. It is also customary to remove your shoes and wash your hands before entering the main prayer hall.
The Nagar Kirtan is a grand, joyful procession that takes place on the eve of Guru Nanak Jayanti. It involves singing holy hymns, carrying the Sikh flag (Nishan Sahib), and parading the Guru Granth Sahib on a beautifully decorated float (Palki) through the streets. It symbolizes taking the message of the Guru to the community.
A- His teachings are simple yet profound, revolving around three main principles:
He also fiercely advocated for the equality of all human beings, regardless of caste, creed, or gender.
You can use simple and heartfelt greetings like:
"Happy Gurpurab!"
"Guru Nanak Dev Ji Prakash Parv di lakh lakh vadhaiyan!" (Meaning: Hundreds of thousands of congratulations on the occasion of Guru Nanak Dev Ji's Festival of Light)
You can observe Gurpurab at home by: