The holy festival of Guru Nanak Jayanti, which is commonly referred to as Gurpurab, commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first guru of Sikhism.

This year, it will celebrate Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s 553rd birthday and will place on Tuesday, November 8.

Every year, the occasion is marked on the full moon day of the Kartik month, which is also known as Kartik Purnima.

So who was Guru Nanak Dev Ji and how is Gurpurab celebrated?

During the procession, the revered Guru Granth Sahib is carried in a palanquin (a covered litter for one passenger, consisting of a large box carried on two horizontal poles by four or six bearers). Meanwhile, devotees chant hymns in unison and play traditional instruments.

Gurdwaras recite verses from the Guru Granth Sahib non-stop for 48 hours, starting with the Akhand Path chant.

The opening line of the revered Sri Guru Granth Sahib, which incorporates the composition and bani of all 10 Sikh Gurus, is claimed to be the first word in Sikhism. It’s titled Ik Onkar.

Following the festivities, volunteers host langars at gurudwaras, with many people participating in sewa (selfless service) while serving food to visitors.

What are the most common wishes and celebrations for the festival?

There are a number of wishes and celebrations for the festival, which include:

May the holiness and wisdom of Guru Nanak Ji illuminate your heart and mind. Happy Gurpurab!

May Guruji bless us in both delight and suffering. Wishing you a Happy Gurpurab because prayers are never in vain!

May Guru Nanak Dev Ji grant all of your wishes and bestow upon you his blessings forever!

Waheguru Ji ka khalsa, Waheguru ji ki fateh. Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti!