Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Gurpurab or Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Prakash Utsav, is one of the most significant festivals for Sikhs across the world. It celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. Guru Nanak’s teachings and messages of love, equality, and unity have inspired millions of people for centuries.
This auspicious day is marked with prayers, processions, and religious gatherings at Gurdwaras where devotees come together to pay homage to the great spiritual leader. Let’s explore the date, history, quotes, and messages for Guru Nanak Jayanti.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024: Date and Time
Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated on the Kartik Purnima, the full moon day of the Kartik month, which usually falls in October or November according to the Gregorian calendar. In 2024, Guru Nanak Jayanti will be observed on Tuesday, November 12.
Key Timings of Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024:
Purnima Tithi Begins: 02:44 PM on November 11, 2024
Purnima Tithi Ends: 04:47 PM on November 12, 2024
The celebrations typically start two days prior to the festival, with continuous recitations of the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture of the Sikhs), and culminate with grand prayers and processions on the day of Gurpurab.
History of Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Dev Ji was born in 1469 in Talwandi, now known as Nankana Sahib, located in present-day Pakistan. From an early age, Guru Nanak was inclined towards spirituality and sought answers to life’s deeper questions. His teachings emphasized the importance of oneness with God, equality among humans, and the rejection of rituals and caste systems.
He traveled extensively, spreading the message of love, compassion, and humility. His key teachings are encapsulated in the Mool Mantar, the foundational prayer of Sikhism, which emphasizes the oneness of God:
Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings laid the foundation of Sikhism, which promotes the principles of honest living, sewa (selfless service), and Naam Japna (remembering God through prayer).
Celebrations of Guru Nanak Jayanti
Guru Nanak Jayanti is celebrated with much enthusiasm across India, particularly in Punjab and Haryana, and globally by Sikhs. The celebrations include:
Akhand Path: A non-stop 48-hour reading of the Guru Granth Sahib.
Nagar Kirtan: A grand procession led by the Sikh flag (Nishan Sahib) and featuring the singing of hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib. Devotees participate in the procession by carrying banners and displaying Sikh martial arts known as Gatka.
Katha and Kirtan: Devotional songs and sermons praising Guru Nanak’s teachings are sung in Gurdwaras.
Langar: A free community meal organized in Gurdwaras where everyone, regardless of caste or religion, is served food.
Prabhat Pheris: Early morning processions in neighborhoods with devotees singing hymns and prayers.
The teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji continue to resonate with millions, and his birthday is a reminder of living a life filled with compassion, equality, and devotion to God.
Guru Nanak Jayanti Quotes
Here are some inspiring quotes to share on this auspicious occasion:
“There is but One God. His name is Truth; He is the Creator, He fears none; He is without hate; He never dies; He is beyond the cycle of births and death. He is self-illuminated. He is realized by the kindness of the True Guru.” – Guru Nanak Dev Ji
“Speak only that which will bring you honor.” – Guru Nanak Dev Ji
“Let no man in the world live in delusion. Without a Guru, none can cross over to the other shore.” – Guru Nanak Dev Ji
“God is one, but He has innumerable forms. He is the Creator of all and He Himself takes the human form.” – Guru Nanak Dev Ji
“He who has no faith in himself can never have faith in God.” – Guru Nanak Dev Ji
“The world is a drama, staged in a dream.” – Guru Nanak Dev Ji
“Sing the songs of joy to the Lord, serve the Name of the Lord, and become the servant of His servants.” – Guru Nanak Dev Ji
“I am neither a child, a young man, nor an ancient; nor am I of any caste.” – Guru Nanak Dev Ji
“Through selfless service, eternal peace is obtained.” – Guru Nanak Dev Ji
“Riches cannot be gathered without sin and evil means.” – Guru Nanak Dev Ji
Guru Nanak Jayanti Messages
Here are some messages you can share with your loved ones on Guru Nanak Jayanti:
“May Guru Nanak Dev Ji inspire you to live with peace, unity, and compassion. Happy Gurpurab!”
“On this sacred day, let us all bow to Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s divine wisdom and seek his blessings. Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti!”
“May the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji guide us through the path of righteousness and love. Wishing you a blessed Guru Nanak Jayanti!”
“As we celebrate the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, let’s strive to follow his teachings of kindness, equality, and spirituality. Happy Gurpurab!”
“On this auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti, may the divine blessings of Guru Ji bring peace and happiness to your life.”
“Wishing you and your family a life full of peace and joy on Guru Nanak Jayanti. May his divine blessings be with you always.”
“Let us celebrate the eternal wisdom of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and strive to follow his teachings. Wishing you a Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti!”
“May Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings enlighten our minds and guide us through the path of truth and righteousness. Happy Gurpurab!”
“May the divine blessings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji fill your life with happiness and peace. Happy Guru Nanak Jayanti!”
“May the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji inspire you to live a life of compassion, kindness, and devotion. Wishing you a Happy Gurpurab!”
Guru Nanak Jayanti is not just a celebration of the birth of a great spiritual leader, but also a reminder of his timeless teachings. His message of universal brotherhood, love, and devotion to God transcends all boundaries. As we celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti 2024, let’s imbibe his teachings in our lives and share the spirit of unity and kindness with those around us.
